A haven for traveling actors during the colonial days, Charleston became the undisputed center of artist activity of the age. Over the years, the city has held fast to a tradition of providing the finest in art, dance, opera, music and theater, and all of these art forms thrive in the Trident area today. Charleston is home to some of the country's oldest cultural treasurers, including The Charleston Museum, founded in 1773 and generally considered the oldest collection in the United States, and the Dock Street Theater, the first theater built in this country for theatrical production. Other important cultural institutions and organizations in the area include the Gibbes Museum of art, The Charleston Civic Ballet, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra, several theatre groups and an endless array of art galleries.
The crowning glory of the Charleston art scene, however, is Spoleto Festival U.S.A., founded in 1977 by the world-famous composer Gian Carlo Menotti. The festival, held each year in late June, has become an internationally-acclaimed festival of the visual and performing arts that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Geographical Overview
A 3,163-square mile region located at the southern-most end of Interstate 26, along South Carolina's seaboard.
Historical Overview
This gracious and beautiful Southern city holds tightly to her rich traditions and elegant style.
Economic Overview
The port city of Charleston has grown into one of the major centers of trade and commerce on the Southeastern seaboard.
Climate
With an average annual temperature of about 65 degrees Charleston is both a great tourist destination and place to live.
Education
There are four school districts serving approximately 90,000 students in the Charleston metropolitan area.
Religion
There are more than 250 churches and synagogues in the metropolitan Charleston area
Sports and Recreation
Golf, fishing and boating of all kinds are part and parcel of the Charleston "lifestyle."
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