A Once-in-a-Month Philadelphia Moon Moment
On certain evenings, Philadelphia offers a sight that feels like it belongs in a movie — the full moon rising directly behind the iconic William Penn statue atop Philadelphia City Hall. In this image, the glowing golden moon crowns Penn’s silhouette, creating a rare and unforgettable scene in the City of Brotherly Love.
The Landmark: Philadelphia City Hall
Philadelphia City Hall, a masterpiece of Second Empire architecture, is crowned by a 37-foot bronze statue of William Penn. Standing 548 feet above street level, this statue has been a defining feature of the city skyline for over 125 years. Normally, Penn is framed by clouds or blue skies — but on this night, the universe had other plans.
How This Moonrise Photo Was Captured
Photographing the moon in perfect alignment with City Hall is no accident. Using moon-tracking apps and detailed maps of Philadelphia, I calculated the exact date, time, and location where the moon would rise behind the statue. A shift of just a few steps or a minute’s delay would have ruined the alignment.
Why This Scene is So Special
The photo is more than a visual treat — it’s a meeting of history and astronomy. It’s a reminder that even in the middle of a bustling modern city, the ancient rhythm of the moon still syncs beautifully with human landmarks.
Best Time to See the Full Moon in Philadelphia
The full moon rises in the east just after sunset. For the perfect alignment with William Penn, you’ll need to check a moonrise calculator and scout a vantage point far enough away to see both the statue and the moon in frame.
Final Thoughts
Philadelphia is known for its history, but moments like this prove that it’s also a city of living, evolving beauty. Whether you’re a photographer, an astronomy enthusiast, or just someone who loves looking up, a moonrise behind William Penn is a sight worth chasing.
These images are available in color and as a black and white.
To view additional images please visit www.susancandelario.com.
For licensing information please contact me.
Thank You,
Susan Candelario
