In A.D. 17 the city was almost completely destroyed. So great was this quake that for over twenty years tremors plagued Philadelphia and some told us that almost every day walls and masonry in the city fell. Consequently most inhabitants moved out, dwelling in tents for fear of their lives. Walking northeast of Philadelphia we observe a great vine-growing district. Going into Philadelphia, an imposing temple meets our eyes, the Temple of Dionysus, god of wine.
Wine stores dominate the city's streets.
Various hot springs with bathers draw our attention and even though weary with the journey we avoid bathing with the ungodly. Inside the city we linger at a textile mill, viewing the operations, then move down the street to view a leather works. Inquiring we are told where a very small group of believers meet and upon finding the place we discover a little unimposing room. The door is locked but the neighbors tell us that they are well acquainted with the place and the Christians that gather there. We are informed that the little group was always asking them to come and hear the gospel.