Support Us Button Widget

Charleston’s global connection with Spoleto, Italy

We’re exploring the cultural and economic ties that link to one of Charleston’s sister cities.

IMG_1240

Spoleto became Charleton’s sister city in 2008.

Photo via The Natural Adventure Company

What do the Holy City + Spoleto, Italy have in common? The two might seem completely unrelated, but they are actually sister cities.

The goal of a sister city is to cultivate international relationships while having the opportunity to explore different cultures + stimulate economic development. Spoleto became Charleton’s sister city in 2008 + the two cities shares a major festival.

The Festival of Two Worlds, founded in 1958 by Gian Carlo Menotti, is an annual summer event held in Spoleto. Its “sister event,” the American counterpart Spoleto Festival USA, takes place in Charleston. Established in 1977, it is named in tribute to the original festival’s location.

Charleston was selected by founders Menotti, Christopher Keene + others due to its historic charm, and wealth of theaters, churches + performance spaces. They believed Charleston embodied the spirit of Spoleto, making it the perfect American home for the festival.

Charleston’s other sister city
Spoleto isn’t Charleston’s only international connection — Panama City, Panama, became a sister city in 2016.

More from CHStoday
The Magnolia Landing development will span 192 acres and provide working, housing, dining, and entertainment options for the community.
It’s not just Charleston getting the praise; the Lowcountry has several hotels, resorts, and islands honored in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
We keep an eye on your clicks to make sure CHStoday is always filled with content you love.
Sponsored
Charleston has a packed list of races to get prepared for throughout the year
Deep dive into this guide and learn how to navigate the annual two-day music festival loaded with live music and food inspired by the Lowcountry.
Dining in the Holy City is always a fresh experience, with new restaurants popping up all the time — and more on the way.
The Swedish car company is celebrating 70 years, and it has sold more than 5 million cars in the US.
The annual festival will be back on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Riverfront Park in North Charleston. The Charleston Beer Fest will offer tastings from 75+ breweries, live music, and a variety of local vendors.
Bookmark this guide for a curated list of events taking place each month that we’re most looking forward to.