Marion Square

A Glimpse into History

Located in the heart of Charleston since 1758, Marion Square began as a 10-acre plot with quite the résumé. It first served as a defensive wall against Native Americans (talk about a different era), before transforming into a parade ground for the state arsenal.

Between 1843 and 1922, locals knew this green space as Citadel Green while The Citadel military college called it home. In 1882, officials officially renamed it Marion Square after Francis Marion - that legendary Revolutionary War hero who earned the nickname "Swamp Fox" for his guerrilla warfare tactics.

Historic St. Matthew's Lutheran Church tower across the street from the park

Photo: Han Zheng (CC BY-SA 2.0)

What You'll Find There

Wandering through Marion Square today, you'll encounter several meaningful monuments. There's a solemn Holocaust Memorial that offers a moment for reflection, and an obelisk dedicated to John C. Calhoun (though the actual Calhoun statue was removed in 2020 amid changing perspectives on historical figures).

History buffs will appreciate the preserved fragment of a tabby fortification from the American Revolution - the "Horn Work" - which stands as a quiet reminder of Charleston's role in America's fight for independence. There's also a charming bandstand from 1944 that still hosts occasional performances.

Marble base of the former John C. Calhoun Monument in Marion Square

Photo: Warren LeMay (CC BY-SA 2.0)

What's Happening

This isn't just a static historical site - Marion Square pulses with activity throughout the year. The Charleston Farmers Market breathes life into the square every Saturday from April through November, where you can find everything from fresh produce to local crafts.

If you time your visit right, you might catch cultural celebrations like the arts-focused Piccolo Spoleto or the mouth-watering Charleston Wine + Food Festival, which transforms the space into a culinary playground.

Warm afternoon light on Marion Square

Photo: Jason (CC BY 2.0)

The Lay of the Land

At about 6.5 acres, Marion Square sits comfortably bordered by Calhoun Street (south), Meeting Street (east), and King Street (west), with the former Citadel building - now transformed into a hotel - standing guard to the north.

The square offers a mix of open grassy areas meant for picnics, paved pathways for strolling, and mature trees providing welcome shade during Charleston's warmer months. Its central location makes it a natural gathering spot for College of Charleston students and visitors exploring the historic district. Whether you need a peaceful break from sightseeing or a central meeting point, Marion Square offers both history and functionality in one leafy package.