As William PennĂs vision, for a state in which religious freedom and tolerance were guaranteed, flowered in Pennsylvania, Philadelphia emerged as the largest city in America. Ultimately it became known as the birthplace of the United States and the nationĂs first capital; the city also served as a thriving seaport, centre of commerce and trade and an intellectual center for newspapers and higher learning. The stunning Kimmel Center, the Rodin Museum and the Philadelphia Museum of Art coexist splendidly with the city's historic venues, as well as the city being the birthplace for the Liberty Bell and the stunning Independence Hall.