Jace Lamonica
Towering steeples, handmade bricks, and centuries-old graveyards—South Carolina’s historic churches hold echoes of the past. Each sanctuary stands as a record of the state’s spiritual and cultural journey. These 10 remarkable churches reveal the timeless beauty and history that shape the heart of South Carolina.
St. Michael’s Church in Charleston
History stands tall at St. Michael’s Church, a Georgian masterpiece completed in 1761. Its white steeple guided ships and spirits alike for centuries, surviving wars and hurricanes. George Washington prayed here in 1791, a reminder of its enduring role as a beacon of resilience and faith.
Old St. Andrew’s Parish Church in Charleston
Crafted from handmade bricks in 1706, Old St. Andrew’s is South Carolina’s oldest church building. Step inside to find wooden pews and arched windows that reflect the simplicity of colonial life. It remains a living proof of the region’s rich spiritual and architectural heritage.
Parish Church of St. Helena in Beaufort
Down in Beaufort, the Parish Church of St. Helena has stood since 1712. Revolutionary War veterans rest in its historic graveyard, while hand-hewn beams tell stories of colonial life. A sanctuary for both history lovers and worshippers alike, it continues to inspire.
Prince George Winyah Parish Church in Georgetown
Journey to Georgetown, where this mid-1700s Anglican church enchants visitors with its semi-octagonal apse and red brick charm. Step into its cool, quiet interior to see stained-glass windows casting colorful patterns. More than 270 years of history breathe life into its peaceful walls.
Huguenot Church in Charleston
South Carolina’s only French Protestant church stands out with its Gothic Revival design and pastel pink hue. Built in 1844, the Huguenot Church celebrates Charleston’s cultural diversity. Its pointed arches and delicate ironwork remind visitors of faith’s beauty and the perseverance of its community.
St. Philip’s Church in Charleston
Established in 1681, St. Philip’s offers more than worship—it’s a piece of history. The steeple guided sailors into Charleston Harbor, and the graveyard holds Declaration of Independence signer Edward Rutledge. It blends South Carolina’s religious and political past in remarkable ways.
Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Charleston
With its towering 190-foot spire and vivid stained-glass windows, this Gothic cathedral has been a Charleston landmark since 1907. The sandstone façade and intricate designs transport visitors to a world of biblical stories and timeless beauty.
St. James Church in Goose Creek
Shaded by live oaks draped in Spanish moss, the 1719 Anglican church radiates tranquility. High box pews and a red-carpeted aisle reflect colonial worship traditions. St. James continues as an active spiritual center while maintaining its historic charm.
First Baptist Church in Columbia
In the heart of Columbia, this 19th-century church hosted the first Southern Baptist Convention. Its white-columned Greek Revival architecture offers timeless elegance, while its historical significance makes it a must-visit. This church remains a cornerstone of faith and history in the state capital.
Zion Lutheran Church in Lexington County
Established in 1745, Zion Lutheran Church embodies South Carolina’s rich German heritage. The unassuming design reflects the modesty of its founders, and its cemetery, marked by German inscriptions, shares tales of immigrant journeys. The site remains a record of the state’s diverse history.
