Write naturally
Start with variables, arrays, functions and classes. Add explicit types where they communicate intent.
A language and toolchain for native software
Familiar code.
Native software.
HolyPHP brings the directness of PHP-style syntax to a compiled language. Check your code, build a native program, and use one toolchain from your first script to a larger application.
No PHP tags. No interpreter or virtual machine in the output.
hello.hphpHolyPHP
// Write a small program
function greet(string $name): string {
return "Hello, {$name}!";
}
echo greet("Ada");
hphp run hello.hphpRun from your terminalOwn compilerPHP-inspired language
Compile-time checksTypes and borrowing
Native buildsRuntime bundled in output
One command lineCheck, run, build, package
The workflow
From first line to finished program
Keep the fast feedback loop of a scripting language, with a compiler that can produce a standalone native executable.
Check as you go
Use hphp check to surface type and borrow errors without having to run the program.
Build for your machine
Run a source file during development or build it into a native executable for distribution.
Language, runtime, libraries
One toolchain. Several ways to build.
HolyPHP is not PHP running through FPM. Its compiler and runtime power programs written in the language itself.
$
Expressive language
Familiar variables, control flow, strings, arrays, classes, closures and typed function signatures.
&Ownership and borrowing
Compile-time rules help control aliases and mutation. Unsafe pointer operations are marked explicitly.
{ }Native application libraries
Explore desktop UI, async I/O, threads, WebSockets, HTML layout and the HolyIDE workbench.
>_Compiler and CLI
Check, run, emit compiler output, build executables and manage packages from hphp.
Editor support
Use the HolyPHP VS Code extension for syntax highlighting, completions and diagnostics.
□Packages and examples
Try the package commands and learn from complete programs shipped in the repository.
Types & memory
Safety checks in the compiler
HolyPHP offers inferred types for quick scripts and explicit signatures when you need them. Its borrow checker diagnoses supported conflicting uses before code generation.
How memory safety works →// Types can be inferred
$count = 3;
// Or stated in a signature
function total(int $a, int $b): int {
return $a + $b;
}
echo total($count, 4);Get started locally
Install the compiler
Installers build the compiler for your platform. A C compiler is used when hphp run or hphp build compiles a program.
Start where you are
Read, run, or explore the source.
Follow a guided path, experiment in your browser, or see how the project is built.