The Charleston area offers a unique blend of architectural charm, natural beauty, and cultural diversity.  Founded in 1670, the city features the country’s finest array of splendid historic homes. From spacious antebellum piazzas overlooking the expansive harbor waterfront, to quiet colonial gardens along cobblestone streets, old Charleston retains an old-world image of horse-drawn carriages, church steeples, live oaks and wrought iron gates – all set within the framework of a vibrant modern community.

Charleston’s unparalleled link to past and future is dramatically displayed from America’s longest cable-stay bridge crossing the expansive harbor, where massive ships enter this major container seaport in the shadows of Fort Sumter and other Civil War fortifications.

At the mouth of the harbor lie windswept sea islands that stretch north and south, highlighting Charleston’s harmonious blend of development and environment. From internationally-ranked golf links and resort communities, to protected wildlife habitat amid the longest stretch of unspoiled coastline on the Eastern seaboard, the sandy shores near Charleston provide haven for all living creatures.

The respect and room for all is another Charleston legacy that dates to its initial colonial constitution that guaranteed religious freedom for all, and brought such a melting pot of denominations that today it’s still known as the “holy city”.

Along with the mix of beliefs is a multi-faceted heritage that has shaped Charleston’s character, as its arts, cuisine and hospitality bears a genuine international flavor.