A dedicated educational resource hub curated by Global Philadelphia Association with educators and students in mind.
Learn Philly Heritage is a robust collection of classroom-ready resources that explore Philadelphia’s rich history and its role as a World Heritage City. With various learning tools such as podcasts, a coloring book, films, and more — every resource is crafted to inspire curiosity and global awareness. Teachers will find standard lesson plans developed with local educators and vetted by experts, and students can dive into engaging materials that bring history to life.
By providing these resources, GPA continues to support classrooms across Philadelphia, helping to nurture a new generation of informed, culturally aware global citizens.
The Global Philadelphia Association (GPA) is a nonprofit that was founded to support and connect individuals and organizations involved in international activity throughout the Greater Philadelphia Region. GPA is dedicated to promoting Philadelphia as an influential World Heritage City and as a vital, diverse center for global affairs. The city’s location, rich history, and vibrant immigrant communities stir a unique passion for global connection.
For over a decade, we have helped those who think globally become valuable economic and cultural assets for the Greater Philadelphia region.
In 2015, GPA helped secure Philadelphia’s selection as America’s first World Heritage City. The four pillars of the World Heritage City Project continue to guide our vision for Greater Philadelphia.
A World Heritage City is a recognition given by the Organization of World Heritage Cities to cities that contain a UNESCO World Heritage Site—sites recognized by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for their outstanding universal value. These sites represent cultural and/or natural heritage of exceptional importance.
Philadelphia is home to Independence Hall—where the foundations of American democracy were laid—earned this distinction because of its designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Global Philadelphia Association launched the World Heritage City Project, a multi-faceted strategic process to raise Philadelphia’s international profile and inspire a new level of local heritage recognition and activity.
Philadelphia became recognized as a World Heritage City and was inducted as a full member of the Organization of World Heritage Cities, making it the first American city to join this international network. This prestigious title recognizes Philadelphia’s rich history and global importance, and provides more opportunities for cultural exchange, local heritage preservation, heritage education, and international recognition.
