The city of Charleston, South Carolina, was named and founded in 1670 by English colonists. It was initially named Charles Town in honor of King Charles II. However, in 1783 officials changed the city's name to Charleston after the British invasion. Charleston flourished during the 18th century, as is evident in the building of the Drayton Hall, Middleton Place House, Michael's Episcopal Church, the College of Charleston, Old Exchange and Provost Dungeon Heyward-Washington House, and Charleston Museum between 1742 and 1773. During the War of Independence, on 12 May 1780, Charleston was captured by the British, forcing them to withdraw on 14 December 1782. Charleston then earned its name as the 'Holy City' because of its many churches. From 1772 to 1846, we saw the establishment of several iconic churches, namely, Charleston Unitarian Church, Second Presbyterian, The Huguenot (French Protestant) Church, and Grace Church Cathedral. By 1800 Charleston had a population of over 20,000 and continued to thrive into the early 19th century. Throughout the 1800s, many iconic buildings and establishments came into existence, for example, Joseph Manigault House in 1803 and Nathaniel Russell House in 1808. In addition, the Aiken-Rhett House and The Edmondson-Allston House were built in 1820 and 1825, respectively. By 1850 the population of Charleston was just under 43,000. Unfortunately, this figure was further negatively impacted during the Civil War, forcing its surrender to the Union Forces in 1865 after much devastation. During the late 19th century, Charleston's economic growth took several hits, such as a massive earthquake in 1886 and the Great Blizzard in 1899, which caused more death and destruction. Slowly, Charleston started to rebuild and recover. Although it experienced a few more hits and natural disasters over the next century, it still managed to grow and expand its economy. Today, Charleston is a thriving city with an extremely healthy tourism industry and many opportunities to ensure its continued success and longevity. Charleston, South Carolina, is one of the friendliest cities in the United States, preserving all the best qualities of small-town living. So forget the ambiguity of big city life, and create a new life with trendy condo living in the heart of Charleston's many friendly neighborhoods.

Charleston, South Carolina, has a delightful array of attractions, tours, and culinary experiences from which you can choose. Here are but a few to get you going:

Charleston Walking Tours: Charleston is full of centuries-old museums and significant landmarks. Take a guided tour by foot or horse carriage in the city's downtown district to explore the paranormal, some pirates, an art gallery, and more.

Charleston City Market: Come and experience a glimpse into the country's oldest city markets, first established in the 1800s. There are plenty of local crafts, delicious foods, produce, and West African basket weavers who will amaze you with their creations.

Park & Grove: Situated in a popular neighborhood in Charleston, this gem of a café offers a unique eating experience with a "New American" influence, blending classical flavors with inventive tastes.