Gloria Dei Church

Gloria Dei Church, also known as Old Swedes' Church, is a historic church located in the Southwark neighborhood of Philadelphia. The church was built between 1698 and 1700, making it the oldest church in Pennsylvania. The church is a National Historic Landmark and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church is affiliated with the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America. The church was founded by Swedish immigrants who had come to Philadelphia in 1643. Built in the Swedish Baroque style, the church features a choir loft, an organ, and a pulpit. The church has a long and rich history that is reflected in its collection of artifacts. The bronze crosses and 18th century Bibles are just a few of the pieces that the church has acquired over three centuries. A cemetery contains the remains of some of the original Swedish settlers.