A towering monument and a beautiful Gothic Revival-style synagogue watch over this mid-19th century square in historic downtown Savannah.
Monterey Square features manicured gardens, charming brick walkways, benches and a large monument dedicated to a Polish nobleman. Centrally located, Monterey Square is a short walk from many Savannah attractions, including a large city park and buildings of historical and architectural significance.
Discover the Mercer-Williams House at the southeast corner of Monterey Square. The house is famously referenced in John Berendt’s acclaimed non-fiction novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil. Learn about the rich history of this elegant Italian-style mansion, including the story of James Arthur Williams, the ill-famed owner and subject of Berendt’s non-fiction work. Williams is believed to be the only person tried four times for the same crime in the state of Georgia.
This historic square was laid out in the mid-19th century to commemorate the Battle of Monterey during the Mexican American War. Relax on the shaded park benches or enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns. Admire the monument and the historic buildings surrounding the square.
Observe the beautiful monument dedicated to the Polish nobleman Compte Casimir Pulaski. The Russian-born New York-based sculptor Robert Eberhard Launitz designed this memorial in the 19th century. Pulaski came to Savannah in search of a better life before fighting and losing his life during the Siege of Savannah in the late 18th century.
Monterey Square also contains the Mickve Israel Temple, a synagogue built in the late 19th century. Notice the rare Gothic Revival style of the building. The synagogue also features a small museum filled with precious Jewish artifacts, including a Torah scroll made of deerskin.
Monterey Square is located in Savannah’s historic district. Take a short walk from the city square to Forsyth Park to play a game of soccer or Frisbee in this large public park. Monterey Square is also near many luxurious riverside hotels and less expensive inns. Metered parking is available in the streets surrounding the square.
Enjoy a picnic on Monterey Square’s shaded grassy lawns and admire the surrounding historic Savannah buildings.
