Christ Church Episcopal, Greenville (must see)

Christ Church (Episcopal) holds a significant place in the city's history, standing as the oldest organized religious body and the oldest church building still in existence. Consecrated in 1854, this Episcopal church has retained its architectural splendor over the years, with its distinctive brick Gothic design captivating visitors and locals alike. The church and its courtyard are listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its cultural and historical significance for future generations.

Originally constructed with a nave that measured 80 feet long and 39 feet wide, Christ Church featured a peaked ceiling towering at 65 feet tall. The interior was adorned with exquisite stained glass windows, including a unique circular window depicting the Holy Trinity and a triplex window in the chancel portraying Christ, Saint John, and Saint Peter. Over the years, the church underwent several expansions and renovations, with additions such as a balcony in 1875 and the construction of the south transept in 1880, enhancing both its architectural grandeur and functional capacity.

In 1914, a notable stained glass window depicting the Last Supper was installed in the chancel, crafted by Franz Mayer & Co. in Munich. This window serves as a tribute to Ellison Capers, a Confederate general and former rector of the church, who later became the Bishop of the Diocese of South Carolina. Further modifications were made in 1968, including the addition of the north transept to complete the Gothic cruciform design and the incorporation of an undercroft. In 2000, the church underwent another enhancement with the enlargement of the balcony and the installation of a Goulding and Wood organ, enriching its musical offerings and ensuring the preservation of its architectural legacy for generations to come.