St. Philip's Church
South Carolina's oldest congregation, St. Philip's Church boasts a towering steeple and a rich history within its historic churchyard and cemetery.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
St. Philip's Church
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
South Carolina's oldest congregation, St. Philip's Church boasts a towering steeple and a rich history within its historic churchyard and cemetery.
"St. Philip's is one of Charleston's most beautiful and historically rich landmarks, a testament to centuries of faith and resilience."
📸 Capture the Iconic View
The view of Church Street with St. Philip's steeple is a classic Charleston shot. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the historic churchyard and cemetery across the street. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Towering Steeple
Exterior
Charleston's tallest steeple, a beacon of history and a photographer's dream.
Historic Churchyard & Cemetery
Grounds
Wander among centuries-old graves, including notable figures from American history.
Stunning Interior Architecture
Inside the Church
Discover the peaceful, historically rich interior of South Carolina's oldest congregation.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Exploring Charleston's Historic Heart
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Iconic View
The view of Church Street with St. Philip's steeple is a classic Charleston shot. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the historic churchyard and cemetery across the street. :athletic_shoe:
⛪ Step Inside
The interior is usually open and offers a peaceful, historically rich experience. :church:
🗺️ Part of a Walking Tour
Integrate St. Philip's into a downtown Charleston walking route for efficient sightseeing. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Iconic View
The view of Church Street with St. Philip's steeple is a classic Charleston shot. :camerawithflash:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Don't miss the historic churchyard and cemetery across the street. :athletic_shoe:
⛪ Step Inside
The interior is usually open and offers a peaceful, historically rich experience. :church:
🗺️ Part of a Walking Tour
Integrate St. Philip's into a downtown Charleston walking route for efficient sightseeing. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
St. Philip's Church is widely praised for its stunning architecture, rich history, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors are captivated by the towering steeple and the historical significance of its churchyard and cemetery. While some mention ongoing restoration work, the overall sentiment is one of awe and appreciation for this Charleston landmark.
"Established in 1681, St. Philip’s is the oldest church congregation in the state of South Carolina. After they moved to their Church Street site in 1710, they built a church that lasted until it was wiped out by a fire. The current building was constructed in 1835 and boasts a beautiful, tall steeple.
The interior of St. Philip’s is stunning so if you’re exploring the churchyard or cemetery, go inside the church and look around. It’s usually open, with helpful guides to tell you all about it.
Fact: it is the highest point in Charleston. Also, The church you see today is the second on this site. The original held its first service on Easter Sunday 1723, and burned down in a fire in February 1835.
It also has the distinction of having both a churchyard (graves surrounding the church building itself) and a cemetery across the street.
The view of Church Street punctuated by St. Philip’s remains one of Charleston’s most photographed spots."
Sanjay Gupta
"St. Philip’s Church is one of Charleston’s most beautiful and historically rich landmarks. Its stunning architecture and towering steeple make it a centerpiece in the heart of town, standing as a testament to centuries of faith and resilience. Walking through the church’s grounds, I felt a profound sense of peace, especially in the cemetery where historic graves of notable figures, including governors and other influential Charlestonians, are preserved.
The church is not only a place of worship but a connection to Charleston’s storied past. Some even say it’s a site of ghostly encounters, adding a mysterious allure to its historic charm. Visiting around Christmas, you can experience St. Philip’s in a particularly special light, with the church beautifully decorated, amplifying its tranquil atmosphere.
St. Philip’s is a must-visit for anyone interested in Charleston’s history, offering both regular tours and special ticketed events that dive deeper into its legacy. The combination of beauty, peace, and historical significance here is unmatched, making it an unforgettable stop in Charleston."
Daniel Neuhaus
"Lovely church. Unfortunately it’s currently going through some restoration works."
Carlos Uploads
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Philip's Church is located in the heart of downtown Charleston, making it easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the historic district. Many visitors incorporate it into their walking tours of Charleston. Parking can be challenging in this area, so consider using ride-sharing services or public transport if you're not staying nearby.
Yes, St. Philip's Church is a frequent stop on many popular walking tours of downtown Charleston. These tours are a great way to see the church and learn about its history along with other significant landmarks.
A walking route covering downtown Charleston is highly recommended. St. Philip's Church is a key point of interest on these routes, offering a glimpse into the city's oldest congregation.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, no tickets are required to visit the grounds and the exterior of St. Philip's Church. Entry into the church itself is often permitted during visiting hours, and volunteers may be present to share information.
While specific hours can vary, St. Philip's Church is typically open for visitors during daylight hours on weekdays and Saturdays. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current visiting information, especially if you plan to attend a service.
There is usually no admission fee to visit St. Philip's Church. Donations are always welcome to help with the upkeep and preservation of this historic landmark.
Absolutely! St. Philip's Church welcomes visitors to attend their regular worship services. It's a wonderful way to experience the spiritual heart of this historic congregation.
Yes, St. Philip's Church sometimes hosts special ticketed events and offers tours that delve deeper into its rich history and legacy. Inquiring about these opportunities can enhance your visit.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside St. Philip's Church, you'll find stunning architecture and a peaceful atmosphere. It's a place to connect with centuries of faith and history. Guides are often available to share insights about the church's past.
The cemetery at St. Philip's Church is historically significant, containing the graves of notable figures like Colonel William Rhett and John C. Calhoun. It's a fascinating place to explore Charleston's past.
While many historic buildings present accessibility challenges, efforts are often made to accommodate visitors. It's best to contact the church directly to inquire about specific accessibility options for the interior and grounds.
St. Philip's Church steeple is noted as being the highest point in Charleston, offering a prominent landmark within the city skyline.
Some visitors mention a mysterious allure and even ghostly encounters associated with the historic charm of St. Philip's Church, adding an intriguing layer to its storied past.
📸 📸 Photography
The view of Church Street punctuated by St. Philip's towering steeple is one of Charleston's most photographed spots. The churchyard and cemetery also offer many picturesque opportunities.
Photography inside historic churches can sometimes be restricted to protect the sanctity of the space and the artwork. It's advisable to check for any signage or ask a volunteer before taking photos inside.
Visiting around Christmas can be particularly special, as the church is beautifully decorated, amplifying its tranquil atmosphere and offering unique photo opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History Enthusiasts
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Faith: St. Philip's Historical Significance
Beyond its architectural grandeur, St. Philip's is deeply intertwined with the fabric of Charleston's history. The churchyard and cemetery are not just resting places but historical archives, housing the remains of influential figures, including governors and vice presidents. Walking through these grounds offers a tangible connection to the past, with gravestones bearing names that shaped American history.
Visitors often describe a profound sense of peace and historical reverence when exploring St. Philip's. Whether admiring the stunning interior architecture or contemplating the lives of those buried in the cemetery, the church offers a unique window into Charleston's storied heritage. It's a place where history, faith, and community converge, making it a must-visit for history buffs and those seeking a moment of quiet reflection.
Exploring the Grounds: Churchyard and Cemetery
Across the street lies the St. Philip's Cemetery, a larger expanse that holds the final resting places of many prominent figures. Visitors can seek out the graves of individuals like Colonel William Rhett, known as the 'Pirate Hunter,' and John C. Calhoun, the 7th Vice-President of the United States. Exploring this cemetery is like walking through a living history book, with each marker representing a piece of America's past.
Many visitors recommend taking time to stroll through both the churchyard and the cemetery. It's an opportunity to appreciate the detailed stonework, the historical context, and the sheer age of these resting places. The cemetery, in particular, is often highlighted as a fascinating aspect of the St. Philip's experience, offering a deeper understanding of Charleston's influential families and historical figures.
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