10 Beautiful and Historic Churches in Charleston, SC Not to Miss
Last Updated on: 13th May 2024, 10:22 am
Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the best cities in the United States for visiting gorgeous and historic churches. Known as the “Holy City” for its skyline punctuated by steeples, Charleston is home to some of the most historically and culturally significant churches in all of North America. This post delves into the stories of famous churches in Charleston – churches that not only offer spiritual refuge but also mirror Charleston’s history, from the Revolutionary War through the Civil War, to the present day.
Each church with its beautiful architecture and unique history contributes to Charleston’s collective memory and its reputation as a longstanding beacon of religious freedom and cultural diversity. If you are planning to spend one day in Charleston or a week exploring the Deep South, you don’t want to miss the best churches in Charleston, SC!
Planning a Last-Minute Trip to Charleston, South Carolina? We’ve Got You Covered!
🛵The Best Things to Do in Charleston
✈︎ Horse-Drawn Carriage History Tours of Charleston – ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ The Most Popular Activity in Charleston! Don’t miss it!
✈︎ Visit Fort Sumter with Round Trip Ferry – A must-see for anyone interested in American History! Beautiful trip on the water.
🏨 Gorgeous Places to Stay in Charleston
✈︎ The Starlight Motor Inn ($) Drive into Charleston, highly rated budget inn, 50’s vibe and decor!
✈︎ Indigo Inn ($$ / ⭐⭐⭐) Central Boutique Hotel w/ Free Breakfast
✈︎ The Dewberry Charleston ($$$ / Splurge), Luxury Beaux-Arts Hotel in the Center of Everything
💶 Travel Insurance
✈︎ Do not forget to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before you leave for Charleston – especially if you are traveling internationally and your health insurance doesn’t apply! I always use SafetyWing Travel Insurance and have always been very happy with their service and pricing!
A Brief History of Charleston, South Carolina
Directly facing the gorgeous South Carolina coastline, Charleston was founded in 1670 and played a pivotal role in American history, from its early days as a bustling colonial port to its significant part in the Civil War.
Along with it’s neighbor about 2-3 hours to the south, Savannah, GA, Charleston is one of the most beautifully preserved American cities with stately historic homes and – of course – Charleston’s beautiful churches.
Charleston is perhaps the premier destination for anyone interested in American history, particularly in the 19th century, and the contemporary history of Gullah peoples and the coastal ecology that marks this part of the South: blue herons, salt marshes, and beautiful beaches near Charleston.
Charleston’s Place in the American Civil War
Charleston is known as the birthplace of the American Civil War. On April 12, 1861, Confederate forces opened fire on the federally held Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, initiating the four-year war. This attack followed South Carolina’s secession from the Union, making it the first state to do so, partly due to escalating tensions over the enslavement of African peoples and states’ rights issues.
During the war, Charleston’s strategic position as a major port city on the Eastern Seaboard made it vitally important for both the Confederacy and the Union.
The city served as a crucial point for the blockade running that was essential for the Confederacy to obtain supplies from abroad, despite the Union’s efforts to blockade Southern ports.
This history can be seen today in Charleston still today at its well-preserved harbor and many historic sites. Today Charleston’s harbor is better known as a popular cruise port for ships traveling up the American east coast – but this history is acknowleged and ever-present.
Insider Tip:
Don’t forget to leave time in your schedule to simply walk through Charleston’s historic district, and especially walk some blocks with the beautiful, historic houses. Much of Charleston’s joy and charm lies in its architecture and that is best seen at the pace of your own two feet! Grab some coffee at Bitty and Beau’s Coffee Shop (my favorite coffee chain – they employ adults with Down syndrome and other intellectual disabilities) and take a stroll!
The “Holy City” of the South: Charleston, SC
Charleston’s nickname, “The Holy City,” is derived from its history of religious tolerance and the diverse array of churches that adorn its skyline.
Among these, St. Michael’s Church stands out as the oldest surviving religious structure in the city, offering insights into the colonial era and beyond.
More recently, Mother Emmanual AME Church stands as a monument to the 9 individuals who lost their lives at the hands of a gunman who open-fired in a racist act that continues to r reverberate throughout Charleston and the American South.
The churches of Charleston, SC, not only serve as places of worship but also as markers of the city’s journey – through wars, hurricanes, confronting racism, and emerging as a resiliant city today.
Today Charleston is renowned for its culinary scene, which blends traditional Southern cooking with contemporary flair, its thriving arts and culture scene, and the natural beauty of its coastal setting.
The Most Beautiful Churches in Charleston
1. Cathedral of St. John: The Diocesan Heart
The Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Charleston, South Carolina, not to be confused with the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Savannah, GA, is a landmark not only for its history but also for its stunning architecture and art.
Constructed on land that was originally Vauxhall Gardens, a post-Revolutionary entertainment venue, the cathedral’s grounds have evolved from a place of leisure to spiritual sanctity.
The original cathedral, known as the Cathedral of St. John and St. Finbar, was consecrated in 1854 but tragically destroyed in the Great Fire of 1861. Despite this devastating loss, the congregation persevered, and the cornerstone for the current cathedral was laid in 1890, with the church finally completed in 1907.
Visitors to the cathedral are greeted by the impressive Franz Mayer & Co. stained-glass windows. The altar in the Blessed Virgin Mary chapel is graced with an Italian Marble statue of the Madonna and Child by German artist Ferdinand Pettrich, depicting Mary without a head covering—a rarity and sometimes referred to as Our Lady of the South.
The cathedral also houses the Saint John the Baptist Crypt Chapel, the final resting place of the first five bishops of Charleston, adorned with a custom hand-painted altarpiece of St. John the Baptist over the South Carolina landscape. Additionally, the cathedral’s recent renovations include the addition of a long-awaited spire, complete with three bells forming an E major chord, cast by Christoph Paccard Bell Foundries in France.
Constructed on land that was originally Vauxhall Gardens, a post-Revolutionary entertainment venue, the cathedral’s grounds have evolved from a place of leisure to spiritual sanctity.
The original cathedral, known as the Cathedral of St. John and St. Finbar, was consecrated in 1854 but tragically destroyed in the Great Fire of 1861. Despite this devastating loss, the congregation persevered, and the cornerstone for the current cathedral was laid in 1890, with the church finally completed in 1907.
Visitors to the cathedral are greeted by the impressive Franz Mayer & Co. stained-glass windows.
The altar in the Blessed Virgin Mary chapel is graced with an Italian Marble statue of the Madonna and Child by German artist Ferdinand Pettrich, depicting Mary without a head covering—a rarity and sometimes referred to as Our Lady of the South.
The cathedral also houses the Saint John the Baptist Crypt Chapel, the final resting place of the first five bishops of Charleston, adorned with a custom hand-painted altarpiece of St. John the Baptist over the South Carolina landscape.
Additionally, the cathedral’s recent renovations include the addition of a long-awaited spire, complete with three bells forming an E major chord, cast by Christoph Paccard Bell Foundries in France.
2. Grace Church Cathedral: A National Historic Landmark
Grace Church Cathedral, located on Broad Street in Charleston, South Carolina, was originally built in 1846 and later designated as the cathedral of the Episcopal Diocese of South Carolina in 2015.
Grace Church Cathedral is not just a place of worship but a living museum that chronicles the deep-rooted ecclesiastical and cultural narratives of Charleston.
With its Gothic Revival architectural style and stunning interior artwork, Grace Church Cathedral is one of the most compelling and beautiful churches in all of Charleston, SC. Grace Church Cathedral’s foundation dates back to the mid-19th century when it was constructed in 1846. Designed by the renowned architect E.B. White (not to be confused with the author of Charlotte’s Web!), the church was built in the Gothic Revival style, which was prevalent among ecclesiastical buildings of that era.
Architecturally, Grace Church Cathedral is notable for its pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and intricate stained glass windows, which are characteristic of the Gothic Revival style. The exterior is adorned with flying buttresses.
Inside, the cathedral has beautifully crafted stained glass windows depicting various biblical scenes.
3. Circular Congregational Church: A Circle of History
Circular Congregational Church, one of the oldest continuously worshiping congregations in the South and a very rare example of a circular church.
The history of Circular Congregational Church begins in the late 17th century, with its original congregation forming in 1681.
The current structure, known for its unique round shape, was completed in 1892 after the previous building was destroyed by fire in 1861.
Over the years, the church has seen the likes of several notable pastors and figures, including Charles Pinckney, a signer of the U.S. Constitution.
The church is famed for its circular, Romanesque Revival design, rare among traditional ecclesiastical architectures, which typically favor rectangular forms. This design includes a striking rotunda that enhances the acoustics, making the church an excellent venue for music and spoken word.
Inside, visitors are greeted by a breathtaking array of stained glass windows and other artworks, including a series of murals that depict scenes from Charleston’s religious and cultural history. The craftsmanship and attention to detail in these artworks echo the church’s commitment to beauty and spiritual contemplation.
Outside of the Circle Congregational Church in Charleston is a beautiful cemetery and garden well worth walking through to ‘meet’ many other important figures from Charleston’s history!
4. The Oldest Unitarian Church: A Beacon on Archdale Street
The Unitarian Church in Charleston, nestled on Archdale Street, is the oldest Unitarian church in the South and reflects South Carolina’s history intertwined with unique architectural elements.
Built in 1772 and completed in 1787, it stands on the foundations of the original structure destroyed by the Great Fire of 1740.
The design, attributed to Francis Lee and significantly influenced by the Adam style, presents a striking departure from typical ecclesiastical architecture with its boxy form and lack of a steeple, showcasing instead a simple yet elegant façade punctuated by large rounded windows that allow soft light to filter into the serene interior.
Noteworthy is the church’s transformation during the Civil War when it was used by Union troops stationed in Charleston, leaving behind a legacy of tales that echo through its halls.
The church’s cemetery, known as the Unitarian Churchyard, provides a peaceful retreat filled with lush gardens and notable burials, including that of the poetess Caroline Gilman (you can read some of her poems here.)
5. St. Michael’s Church: A Witness to History
St. Michael’s Church, an iconic landmark on Broad Street in Charleston, is one of the city’s most storied and picturesque sites, embodying over two centuries of religious and historical significance.
Erected in the 1750s and completed in 1761, St. Michael’s is the oldest church edifice in Charleston still serving its original congregation.
Its distinctive architecture is a prime example of the Georgian style that characterized many of the colonial Anglican churches, featuring a brilliant white stuccoed exterior and a stately, imposing spire that dominates the Charleston skyline.
The church is famously known for its two large, cast-iron gates and its 186-foot-tall steeple, which houses a set of bells that have chimed over the city since the late 18th century. These bells, originally cast in 1764, have survived despite being sent to England during the Revolutionary War as spoils of war, only to be returned and later restored after being cracked in a fire.
Tourists to Charleston should absolutely stop at St. Michaels if only to see it’s famous Tiffany Windows. The four stained glass windows in St. Michael’s Episcopal were all done by the Tiffany Company of New York. Behind the altar, you can view my favoite, made in 1833: St. Michael slaying the devil, based off Raphael’s famous painting in the Louvre. Also on the East wall is Easter Morning, from 1897 and The Annunciation window. On the South wall, the 1915 Tiffany window is in the style of Art Nouveau.
⁉️ What makes Tiffany Windows so Special ⁉️
Tiffany windows, pioneered by Louis Comfort Tiffany in the late 19th century, are distinguished by their vivid colors and intricate designs.
These windows became symbols of the Art Nouveau movement. What sets Tiffany windows apart is their use of opalescent glass, which Tiffany patented in 1880. This glass features a milky, iridescent quality that diffuses light in a way that mimics natural lightscapes.
Unlike the traditional method of painting on glass, Tiffany windows employ the “copper foil” technique, another Tiffany innovation. This method involves wrapping each piece of cut glass in copper foil and soldering them together, allowing for more delicate and complex patterns, akin to the detailed wings of a butterfly or the subtle gradients of a sunset.
This technique enabled a level of detail and realism previously unachievable in stained glass, making Tiffany windows instantly recognizable for their artistic intricacy and incredible color schemes.
6. French Huguenot Church: Sanctuary for the Refugees
The French Huguenot Church in Charleston, located in the heart of the historic district, is an important monument to the Huguenot community in South Carolina.
Erected in 1844 by the local French Huguenots, this church is the third structure to grace the site since the congregation was established in 1687, after the revocation of the Edict of Nantes forced the Huguenots to flee France.
Distinguished by its Gothic Revival architecture, the church features a stunning façade of cast iron, a rarity in ecclesiastical design, which complements its pastel-colored stucco exterior.
The interior is equally captivating with its vaulted ceilings and intricate stained glass windows that cast colorful light onto the original wooden pews and floors.
Unique among Charleston’s many historic churches, the French Huguenot Church conducts services in French once a year to honor its ancestral ties. As someone with a mother from the South and a French-Canadian father, I hope I can catch one of these services someday!
7. Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul: Gothic Revival Majesty in Charleston
The Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul in Charleston, South Carolina, serves as a beautiful landmark that was constructed in the late 19th century and consecrated in 1890.
The Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul is celebrated for its Neo-Gothic design, characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and an imposing bell tower that pierces the skyline.
The exterior’s detailed stonework and the ornate stained glass windows illustrate stories from the scriptures. Inside, the Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul also has a beautifully adorned altar, elaborate wood carvings, and a series of chapels dedicated to various saints.
The Cathedral of St. Luke and St. Paul not only functions as the episcopal seat of its diocese but also as a center of community and spirituality. The day I was there was a Sunday and the Cathedral was packed with worshippers and celebrating a special day of infant baptism. Its rich history and breathtaking architecture make it a pivotal stop for anyone visiting Charleston.
8. First Scots Presbyterian Church: A Scottish Legacy on Meeting Street
First Scots Presbyterian Church in Charleston, South Carolina hightlights the rich Scottish heritage and robust Presbyterian traditions of the Deep South.
Founded in 1731 by Scottish immigrants, the current church building, completed in 1814 on Meeting Street, showcases a magnificent Greek Revival architectural style, characterized by imposing Doric columns.
Unfortunately, a fire ripped through the church in 1945 and there was further earthquake damage in other areas.
Inside, the church is adorned with beautiful stained glass windows and houses a remarkable collection of historical artifacts that reflect its deep-rooted connections to early Scottish settlers. One of the most memorable stained glass windows clearly shows the ties to the Church of Scotland by depicting the seal of the Church of Scotland, the Burning bush, with the Latin motto around the seal: “Nec tamen consumbatur” (Nevertheless it was not consumed) – ironic and true considering the histoy of fire and earthquakes!
One of the church’s most notable features is its extensive array of memorial plaques dedicated to prominent figures of the congregation.
First Scots is the fifth-oldest ecclesiastical building in the city, and the churchyard contains over fifty 18th-century gravestones. When visiting churches in Charleston, South Carolina, make sure to give yourself enough time to visit the cemetaries attached to them where you will find a surprising number of names you recognize from American history!
Over the years, First Scots has played a pivotal role in Charleston’s community, not only as one of the most beautiful churches in Charleston, but also as a significant of worship and a cultural and historical repository.
9. St. Philip’s Episcopal Church: A Pillar of Charleston’s Faith Community
St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, located in the heart of Charleston’s historic district, was established in 1680, making it one of the oldest congregations in South Carolina. It is also knows as the first brick church in Charleston.
The current church, dating back to 1836, stands as a stunning example of Colonial ecclesiastical architecture.
Its towering steeple, once the tallest point in the city, is a prominent feature of the Charleston skyline.
St. Philip’s is noted not only for its beautiful portico and Corinthian columns but also for its richly detailed interior, which includes a historic organ and intricate stained glass windows that cast a reverent glow upon the sanctuary.
The church cemetery is the final resting place of notable figures such as Charles Pinckney, a signer of the U.S. Constitution, and Edward Rutledge, the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence.
10. Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church: History and Tragedy
Mother Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, more formally known as Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, stands as a historic emblem in Charleston, South Carolina.
Established in 1816, Emanuel AME is the oldest AME church in the Southern United States, and it has played a pivotal role in the African American community for over two centuries. The church was founded in protest against racial discrimination within the Methodist denomination, exemplifying a sanctuary for Black worshipers in the heart of Charleston.
Architecturally, the church is noted for its Gothic Revival style, featuring pointed arches, large windows, and a steeple that adds to Charleston’s historic skyline. This building, completed in 1891 on Calhoun Street, has not only been a place of worship but also a center for civil rights activism and community service.
The church tragically entered the national spotlight on June 17, 2015, when a racially motivated mass shooting took place during a Bible study session.Nine African American church members, including the senior pastor, State Senator Clementa C. Pinckney, were murdered. This heinous act shocked the nation and renewed discussions on race relations and gun control in the United States. In response to this tragedy, the church and wider community have been working towards healing and reconciliation. Plans for a memorial dedicated to the victims, known as the Emanuel Nine, are underway. The design envisages a contemplative memorial garden with two fellowship benches facing each other and a marble fountain inscribed with the names of the Emanuel Nine, symbolizing their lasting legacy and the ongoing struggle for justice and unity.
BONUS: Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim: America’s Oldest Jewish Congregation
Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim, located in the heart of downtown Charleston, represents the oldest Jewish congregation in North America. This historic Charleston landmark is a testament to the city’s enduring spirit of inclusivity and diversity, its larger church serving a large congregation with pride and dedication.
The Legacy of Charleston’s Churches
Charleston’s churches are much more than mere buildings; they are the heartbeat of the city, encapsulating the struggles, triumphs, and enduring spirit of its people. From the Cathedral of St. John to Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church, these sacred spaces tell the story of Charleston, a city that has navigated the tumultuous waters of history with faith and resilience.
As we wander through the historic churches of Charleston, from Broad Street to Calhoun Street, we are not merely tourists but pilgrims on a journey through time. We witness the architectural grandeur of Grace Church Cathedral, the circular unity of the Circular Congregational Church, and the Scottish legacy of the First Scots Presbyterian Church. Each church, with its unique feature, from stained glass windows to Gothic Revival style, invites us to reflect on the past and appreciate the beauty of the present.
Charleston’s churches offer a self-guided tour through the city’s soul, from the oldest congregation at Kahal Kadosh Beth Elohim to the current church leaders at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church. They remind us of the power of community and the resilience of faith, standing as monuments to Charleston’s history of religious freedom, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty.
In conclusion, Charleston’s sacred spaces are not just places of worship but repositories of history and culture. They reflect the city’s spirit, its battles for freedom, its architectural evolution, and its commitment to inclusivity. As the entire city of Charleston continues to grow and evolve, these churches remain steadfast, their spires reaching towards the sky, as enduring symbols of the Holy City‘s rich past and hopeful future.
Best Places to Stay in Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is a city well-suited for day trips from Savannah or Hilton Head Island, but also for a relaxed and beautiful weekend exploring Charleston’s historical sites and it’s incredible churches! If you plan to stay in Charleston for one or two nights, here are some wonderful accomodation options to consider:
- Budget: The NotSo Hostel
- Location: Located in the heart of historic downtown Charleston.
- Why Stay Here: Very affordable rates including dorm rooms with a homey vibe; close to King Street for shopping and nightlife.
- Mid-Range: The Indigo Inn
- Location: Nestled in the historic district, near Market Street.
- Why Stay Here: Offers a cozy, boutique experience with complimentary evening wine and cheese reception, just steps away from Charleston’s famous market area.
- Splurge/Luxury: The Dewberry Charleston
- Location: Overlooking Marion Square, centrally located in downtown Charleston.
- Why Stay Here: A luxury experience in a meticulously restored Mid-Century Modern building, with top-notch amenities and walking distance to high-end dining and historical sites.
Whether you are visiting Charleston for a day or for a week, visiting the historic and beautiful churches in Charleston is a rewarding way to get to know the history of this Southern city and it’s religious heritage.
Author Bio
Cate Michelle previously served as pastor to the oldest Mennonite church in the United States (founded in 1683!) and now writes about religious travel and is a prominent researcher in religion and healthcare. Her mother grew up on Savannah, GA and she has spent large periods of her life exploring the South – from Savannah to Charleston and beyond. When she’s not researching or writing, you can find Cate at her local ice rink where she is a proud adult figure skater, or randomly jetting off to a new locale in Europe
This post may contain affiliate links. That means I earn a small commission for products or services mentioned on this site. As always, all opinions remain my own.
