Though security measures and transportation plans surrounding Pope Francis’ upcoming trip to Philadelphia have been met with criticism, the visit itself remains highly anticipated.
The owners of one local establishment did their part to express that excitement by adding the Bishop of Rome to their famous mural of Franks.
The most exciting news about the papal visit thus far. Update to the Dirty Franks Mural! #PopeinPhilly pic.twitter.com/5PGavJVdEb
— Lauren Vidas (@BroadAndMarket) August 10, 2015
Dirty Frank’s, opened in 1933 during the Prohibition, features more than 20 famous Franks including Benjamin Franklin and Frank Sinatra. Speaking with CBS Philly, artist David McShane says ”Pope Frank” is the first addition in more than 14 years.
“Frank Lloyd Wright, Frank Burns, the character from MASH, Tug McGraw whose real name was Frank,” McShane said, “Frank Perdue, Frank Oz, a French Franc the coin, St. Francis of Assisi … If you’re famous and your name was famous, you had a chance of making it on the wall.”
Though Francis does not figure to deviate from his tour of the city to stop by Dirty Frank’s, his inclusion in the mural guarantees his place at one of Philadelphia’s most established watering holes. The bar was featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Travel Channel show “The Layover” in 2012, and in an interview with Philly.com, owners Jody Sweitzer and Brad Pierce said that they “think everyone in Philly has been here at least once.”
Along with having the required name, Pope Francis additionally belongs on the mural thanks to his employment as a bouncer during his youth in Argentina. He will be in Philadelphia Sept. 26-27.
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