Today, we honor Savannah’s 22 squares. Having been around since the city was founded in Oglethorpe’s plan, the squares in our city have long been a place of community and togetherness.

The squares in Savannah were originally drab dirt lots that provided Savannah’s militia with a place to gather and protect the city. They also served as markets where farmers and artisans could sell their product to the citizens of our (at the time) small city. As Savannah has matured into the priceless gem it is today, as did the squares. Romantic brick and stone paths lead a promenade through lush greenery and fragrant flowers. Tall, sturdy live oaks shelter the square with shade and serenity, and meticulously groomed patches of grass provide the perfect spot for a picnic with friends. The squares are never empty-there are always people milling about and enjoying the sunshine. Dogs leap around their owners in excitement for the next ball to be thrown, while the adventurous retiree takes a break from his exploration of the city, settling down against a tree to take a nap.

The squares also provide much relief for the directionally challenged- As long as you can count, you can make your way through the city. Two squares to the right, and three to the left-now you’re at that coffee shop you always wanted to try! If you aim to spend your day on river street, just walk straight through a line of our squares- you’ll find yourself at the top of those steep historic steps in no time! 

It’s true- Savannah is quite the Southern gem. We have our squares to thank for our culture of community, and for our ease of navigation! In the squares, time stops. Stresses of the real world melt away, and they leave behind only warmth and smiles to be shared by all.