The Charleston City Market, established in the 1790s, is a vibrant hub of commerce and culture in the heart of Charleston, South Carolina. Its four blocks stretch from the architecturally significant Market Hall to East Bay Street, housing over 300 vendors. While it was initially a hub for selling meat and produce, today it offers a diverse array of souvenirs, art, jewelry, and the famous Gullah-Geechee sweetgrass baskets. The market is also home to the Confederate Museum, housed in the historic Market Hall, which showcases artifacts from the city's Confederate past. Despite numerous hurricanes, earthquakes, and a tornado, the City Market has remained resilient, serving as a testament to Charleston's rich history and enduring spirit.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Gullah culture at the heart of Charleston City Market, where the legacy of enslaved Africans from West Africa is woven into the fabric of this historic marketplace. For over 300 years, Gullah artisans have showcased their exquisite craftsmanship through the intricate art of sweetgrass basketry. These baskets, once used for winnowing rice, have evolved into highly sought-after souvenirs, each one a testament to the Gullah people's deep connection to their heritage. Meet Corey Alston, a fifth-generation Gullah weaver, who carries on the tradition with passion and skill. Watch as he demonstrates the ancient techniques passed down through generations, transforming humble marshgrass into works of art. The market is also home to Gallery Chuma, a haven for Gullah art, where you can discover paintings, sculptures, and crafts that celebrate the Gullah culture's rich visual storytelling. As you explore the market, engage with the Gullah artisans, learn about their history, and gain a deeper understanding of their unique perspective. Their stories and creations will transport you to the heart of the Gullah community, offering a glimpse into their vibrant traditions and resilience.

Charleston City Market, established in the 1790s, stands as a testament to Charleston's rich history as a bustling hub of commerce. Its architectural centerpiece, Market Hall, designed by Edward B. White in the Greek Revival style, boasts an imposing portico supported by Doric columns, reminiscent of ancient Greek temples. The hall's exterior is adorned with intricate carvings of bucrania and rams' heads, symbolizing its original purpose as a meat market. Beyond Market Hall, a series of one-story sheds stretch for over 1,200 feet, providing shelter to vendors selling an array of goods, from handmade crafts to local produce. The sheds have undergone numerous renovations over the centuries, yet they retain their original charm, with brick columns, tile roofs, and open stalls. The market has played a pivotal role in Charleston's social and economic life. In the 19th century, it was a gathering place for locals, farmers, and plantation owners, who came to trade and socialize. Today, the market continues to be a vibrant hub, attracting tourists and locals alike with its unique atmosphere and diverse offerings. One of the market's most distinctive features is its association with the Gullah-Geechee people, descendants of enslaved Africans who brought their traditions to Charleston. The Gullah-Geechee sweetgrass baskets, intricately woven from local marsh grasses, are a popular souvenir and a testament to the enduring legacy of this community. Charleston City Market is not only a historic landmark but also a living testament to the city's rich cultural heritage. Its unique architecture, diverse vendors, and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the history and culture of Charleston.