Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Loss - (unaudited) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011	Dec. 31, 2010
Statements of Consolidated Comprehensive Loss - (unaudited) [Abstract]
Net loss	$ (16,630)	$ (7,688)	$ (23,850)
Unrealized (losses) gains on investment securities:
Unrealized holding (losses) gains arising during period	(1,038)	304	4,338
Reduction in deferred tax valuation allowance related to preferred and common stocks	0	(288)	97
Non-credit loss portion of other-than-temporary impairments, net of tax	0	0	(57)
Less adjustment for impaired investments	(1,557)	(1,167)	(311)
Less reclassification adjustment for gains realized in net loss	680	1,158	838
Unrealized (losses) gains on investment securities	(161)	25	3,851
Unrecognized benefit obligation expense:
Actuarial loss	(1,092)	(1,317)	(350)
Less reclassification adjustment for amortization	(311)	(150)	(93)
Other comprehensive (loss) income	(942)	(1,142)	3,594
Comprehensive loss	(17,572)	(8,830)	(20,256)
Less net (loss) income attributable to noncontrolling interest	(1,005)	875	243
Comprehensive loss attributable to Royal Bancshares of Pennsylvania, Inc.	$ (16,567)	$ (9,705)	$ (20,499)