Pennsylvania is home to some of the largest and most beautiful colleges and universities in the country, writes Katie Downey for Newsbreak.

Temple University in North Philadelphia ranks in a tie as the fourth largest university in the Commonwealth, taking up 406 acres.

“Temple University is THE Philadelphia University and is widely recognized as one of the best in the country … there is always plenty to do, great food all around, and lots of history,” said Downey.

It began in 1884 by a Baptist minister of the Grace Baptist Church of Philadelphia, before becoming Temple College of Philadelphia on May 12, 1888.

In 1907, Temple became incorporated as a research university.

“Temple has always been a more affordable choice for higher education with working-class families,” said Downey. “It is currently home to more than 33,000 students.”

With its 406 acres, Temple is in a tie with West Chester University as the fourth largest campus in Pennsylvania.

Atop the list is Penn State, with a whopping 7,958 acres. Temple also trails Slippery Rock University and Edinboro University.

Read more about the most colossal college campuses in Pennsylvania in Newsbreak.

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