SAVANNAH OVERVIEW

Savannah has the distinction of being the first “planned” city in the United States. General James Edward Oglethorpe laid out the town in 1733, after he and 120 settlers landed along the Savannah River and founded the colony of Georgia. The plan that created shade-covered squares and parks surrounded by wards has endured, and has helped Savannah keep its place as one of the most beautiful and unique cities in the country.

The city remains immersed in its history. Its downtown has the United States’ largest historic district, with a multitude of meticulously restored structures. Nearly all of the original squares designed by Oglethorpe remain, and they are surrounded by stunning buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries in the Georgian, Greek Revival and Gothic styles. City Market, known as “The Art and Soul of Savannah” is the place to search for antiques and souvenirs or grab a bite at one of several fine eateries. Another major draw in Savannah is the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade. The celebration is one of the largest in the country and brings in 200,000 to 400,000 visitors yearly.

Historic luxury homes and luxury real estate fill Savannah and offer a glimpse into the city’s eras of affluence and past social identity. The regal residences include Sorrel Weed House, one of the two first homes be made a landmark in the state of Georgia, as well as Mercer House. Designed for General Hugh W. Mercer, construction of Mercer House commenced in 1860 but was not completed until 1868 due to interference from the Civil War. Jim Williams, a prominent Savannah art dealer and the subject of the best selling book and film Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, bought the home and had it restored after ten years of lying vacant.

Today, Savannah’s luxury real estate embraces its roots, while at the same time being modern and equipped with the most up-to-date amenities. Residents of this amazing place can soak in the elegance of yesteryear amid a glorious grid of gardens without sacrificing contemporary sophistication.