One of the most interesting things about the way Savannah is set up are the many squares. There are several of them and they provide many attractions throughout the city. Here are 12 things you might not know about the Savannah squares.

1. Forrest Gump Told His Story at Chippewa Square

You may already know this, but it’s still worth mentioning. Chippewa Square is where Forrest Gump sat and told his story for the movie. The famous bench was actually made for the movie and is found in Savannah’s history museum.

2. There were Three Lost Squares

Three squares were considered lost, but only two remain that way today. Ellis Square was reclaimed and turned into a beautiful public space. It includes a green lawn, visitor’s center and dancing fountain.

3. Five Squares Feature Fountains

There are five squares in Savannah with fountains. Of course, Ellis square has the dancing fountain, but Orleans, Columbia, Johnson and Lafayette all feature fountains, as well.

4. One Square Doesn’t Feature Spanish Moss

While Spanish moss covers most of the city, it’s not found at all in Johnson square. Even though there are live oak tree here, it’s simply not here. The local legend will have you believe it’s due to paranormal reasons.

5. All Original Buildings Remain at Calhoun Square

History buffs will love Calhoun Square. It was created in 1851 and it’s the only square with all original buildings surrounding it.

6. Chief Tomo-chi-chi is Buried in Wright Square

Yamacraw Chief Tomo-chi-chi was one of the most important historic figures of Savannah. He befriended Oglethorpe when he arrived and when he died, the chief was buried in Wright Square. His grave is found under the Gordon monument and a granite rock dedicated to him.

7. Inconsistent Names are Found with Squares and Monuments

One would think the Oglethorpe statue would be found at Oglethorpe Square. However, it’s actually found in Chippewa Square. This isn’t the only inconsistency with the monuments and statues found in the squares. Nathaniel Green is also buried in Johnson Square, not Green Square.

8. Jingle Bells is Found at a Square

The holiday song Jingle Bells has a historic marker in Troup Square. This marker is there due to the song being written at the Savannah Unitarian Church in 1857. It was written by John Pierpont Jr.

9. The Fourth Highest Attraction in the Country is in One of the Squares

According to TripAdvisor, the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is the fourth highest attraction in the entire country. It’s found right here in Savannah on Lafayette Square.

10. Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil Covered some Square Attractions

Not only is the famous Bird Girl statue found on the cover of the novel Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil, but the book also made the Mercer Williams House found in Monterey Square famous when it was made into a film. The Bird Girl statue is actually fond at the Telfair Academy, which is on Telfair Square.

11. The Oldest Operating United States Theater is Located in a Square

The Savannah Theater is the oldest operating theater in the entire country. It’s found on Chippewa Square.

12. John Mercer has Two Landmarks in the Squares

John Mercer is one of the most famous musical sons of Savannah. He was commemorated with a statue located in Ellis Square. There is also a bench in Johnson Square in his honor.

The Savannah Squares are some of the most historical and fascinating attractions in the entire city. There are a number of very interesting facts about each one. Visit all of the squares and you’re sure to add to this list of 12.