Is Philly the Oldest City?

No. Philadelphia was founded in 1682 by William Penn. St. Augustine, Florida, founded in 1565, is generally cited as the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city in the United States, and Jamestown (1607) and Santa Fe (1610) are older settlements too.

Philadelphia founded1682, William Penn

St. Augustine1565

Jamestown1607

Santa Fe1610

Philadelphia’s own place in the story is different. The Declaration of Independence was adopted on 4 July 1776 in the Pennsylvania State House, now Independence Hall, and the Constitution was signed there on 17 September 1787. Philadelphia served as the national capital from 1790 to 1800, and it is often called the birthplace of the nation. The history page covers the bell’s part, and the first-time visitor page covers the city today. Close by, Elfreth’s Alley is often described as one of the oldest residential streets in the country; things to do nearby lists it with the other historic sites.

Frequently asked questions

Is Philadelphia the oldest city in the US?

No. St. Augustine, Florida (1565), is generally cited as the oldest continuously inhabited European-founded city; Philadelphia dates from 1682.

When was Philadelphia founded?

In 1682, by William Penn.

Was Philadelphia the capital of the United States?

Philadelphia served as the national capital from 1790 to 1800. The Independence Hall page covers the building where the founding documents were signed.