Preservation Alliance and Center for Architecture present

Architectural Walking Tours and Philadelphia Architecture Lecture Series

(March 5, 2009) Philadelphia's long-running and much-loved architectural walking tours and lecture series will be presented this year by, respectively, the Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia and the Center for Architecture.

Building Philadelphia is the new name for the Philadelphia Architecture lecture series. Both the lectures and architectural walking tours originated at the Foundation for Architecture in 1986. Last presented by the Philadelphia Society for the Preservation of Landmarks, the tours and lectures have enhanced understanding of the region's architectural heritage for thousands of participants and have received awards and accolades.

The 10-part Building Philadelphia lecture series, sponsored by the Center for Architecture, begins Tuesday, April 7 at the Center at 1218 Arch Street, Philadelphia.

The Preservation Alliance will offer guided architectural walking tours aimed at residents and visitors throughout the region from the first weekend in May through October. Watch the Alliance's website (www.PreservationAlliance.com) for the tour schedule.

"Both the Center for Architecture and the Preservation Alliance share a common mission

of educating about the built environment," said executive directors John Claypool of the Center and John Gallery of the Preservation Alliance in a joint statement.  "The lecture and tour series provide a unique opportunity to learn about Philadelphia's important place in architectural history, both in a classroom setting and on the ground."

Building Philadelphia lectures are given by professionals including architects, urban planners, art and social historians. The architectural walking tours are led by a lively group of highly-trained volunteers from a wide range of backgrounds who share a passion for architecture, urban design and social history. Tours range from Center City locales, including Society Hill and Fitler Square, to historic neighborhoods, such as Frankford and Victorian Germantown, to historic suburban enclaves including Haddonfield and Media. There are also specialized tours such as the popular "Littlest Streets" and "Art Deco Philadelphia."

Philadelphia magazine honored the walking tours with a "Best of Philly 2008" Award, noting they are "the best reason to take a walk."

The Preservation Alliance for Greater Philadelphia actively promotes the appreciation, protection, and revitalization of the Philadelphia region's historic buildings, communities, and landscapes. A 501c3 non-profit membership organization, the Alliance leads in setting the agenda for preservation issues of regional importance and advocates strong public preservation policies. For more information on the Alliance: www.preservationalliance.com

The Center for Architecture performs the charitable and educational work of the Philadelphia chapter of the American Institute of Architects and serves as the physical home for the Chapter in Center City Philadelphia. The Center for Architecture was envisioned with three core principles in mind: Public Engagement, Collaboration and Design Excellence. The Center is an exhibition gallery, studio, museum, interpretive laboratory, tourist destination, reception hall, and classroom. The Center is also home to the AIA bookstore & Design Center and the Community Design Collaborative. For more information on the Center: www.PhiladelphiaCFA.org