Why Does Savannah Have 22 Historic Squares?
One of the first things visitors notice about Savannah is its beautiful public squares. Shaded by live oaks and framed by historic homes, these green spaces feel intentional — because they are.
Savannah’s 22 historic squares are not random parks added later. They are part of one of the most innovative urban plans in American history.
Here’s why Savannah has 22 squares — and why they still define the city today.
The Original 1733 City Plan
Savannah was founded in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe. Unlike many colonial cities that grew organically, Savannah was carefully planned from the beginning.
Oglethorpe designed the city using what is now called the “Oglethorpe Plan.” Instead of a central town square with streets branching outward, he created a repeating grid system made up of wards.
Each ward included:
A central public square
Residential lots
Trust lots (reserved for public buildings like churches and government structures)
This design created balance, accessibility, and shared public space throughout the city.
How the Squares Shaped Savannah
The squares served multiple purposes:
Community Gathering Spaces
They were places for residents to meet, socialize, and gather.
Practical Design
The layout improved airflow and provided shaded areas in Georgia’s hot climate.
Defense & Organization
The ward system allowed for structured militia organization in the colony’s early years.
Growth Without Chaos
As Savannah expanded, new wards and new squares were added, maintaining the city’s organized design.
By the mid-1800s, Savannah had 24 squares.
Why There Are 22 Squares Today
Although 24 squares were originally created, two were lost during the 20th century due to urban development.
Today, 22 historic squares remain — and they continue to define the character of the Historic District.
Each square has its own monument, history, and architectural surroundings. Some honor Revolutionary War heroes, others memorialize Civil War figures, and many reflect the city’s evolving identity over time.
A City Designed for Walking
Savannah’s grid and square system make it one of the most walkable cities in the United States.
The repetition of shaded public spaces every few blocks naturally slows visitors down. The design encourages exploration, reflection, and movement at a human pace.
Unlike many modern cities, Savannah feels intimate because it was built around people — not cars.
Why Understanding the Squares Changes Your Visit
Without context, the squares are simply beautiful green spaces.
But once you understand:
Why they were created
How they structured daily life
How they influenced the city’s growth
Why only 22 remain today
You begin to see Savannah differently.
The layout explains the architecture.
The monuments explain the history.
The symmetry explains the atmosphere.
Experience Savannah’s Squares with Context
The best way to truly understand Savannah’s 22 historic squares is on foot, with historical context guiding the experience.
A small-group walking tour through the Historic District explains how the Oglethorpe Plan shaped the city and how those original design choices still influence Savannah today.
If you want more than just beautiful scenery — if you want to understand why Savannah feels the way it does — begin your visit with a guided walking tour.
👉 Book your Historic District walking tour here.
