20 Fun Facts About Charleston South Carolina

Charleston, South Carolina, is a city rich in history and culture. From its stunning architecture to its charming cobblestone streets, there is no shortage of beauty and intrigue in this southern gem. Here are 20 fun facts about Charleston that are sure to surprise and delight.

1. Charleston was founded in 1670, making it one of the oldest cities in the United States.
2. The city was named after King Charles II of England.
3. Charleston was once one of the busiest ports in the United States, and played a key role in the slave trade.
4. The city is home to the first public college in the United States, the College of Charleston, which was founded in 1770.
5. Charleston is known as the “Holy City” because of its large number of churches.
6. The city is home to the oldest Jewish synagogue in the United States, Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim, which was established in 1749.
7. Charleston is the birthplace of the sweet tea, which is a staple of southern cuisine.
8. The Charleston Tea Plantation, located on nearby Wadmalaw Island, is the only working tea plantation in the United States.
9. The first shots of the Civil War were fired at Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor.
10. Charleston was heavily damaged by a massive earthquake in 1886, which killed over 100 people.
11. The city is home to the famous Rainbow Row, a series of colorful historic homes on East Bay Street.
12. The Charleston City Market, which dates back to 1804, is one of the oldest public markets in the United States.
13. Charleston is known for its Lowcountry cuisine, which includes dishes like shrimp and grits, she-crab soup, and Hoppin’ John.
14. The city is also known for its sweetgrass baskets, which are handmade by local artisans using a traditional African technique.
15. The Gibbes Museum of Art in Charleston has a collection of over 10,000 works of American art, including pieces by Mary Cassatt and Winslow Homer.
16. Charleston is home to the Spoleto Festival USA, a two-week celebration of the performing arts that takes place every spring.
17. The city is also home to the Charleston Wine + Food Festival, which showcases the city’s vibrant food and beverage scene.
18. Charleston was named the “Best Small City in the U.S.” by Conde Nast Traveler in 2020.
19. The Battery, a promenade along the waterfront, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to take in the stunning views of Charleston Harbor.
20. The city is known for its hospitality and Southern charm, and is a favorite destination for visitors from around the world.