Many people visit Savannah because of its reputation for being a sanctuary of supernatural activities. The chances of actually encountering a ghost here are pretty slim, but there’s an unproven explanation for a phenomenon that is sure to scare. In Rousakis Plaza, which is located on Savannah’s Riverwalk is a mysterious place that is known as Echo Square. The tiny, bricked space is surrounded by squat planters filled with pampas grass. Black pavers create a circular shape that is topped by the shape of an “X” in the middle. Anyone who is in the center is subject to an acoustic phenomenon that is bizarre, in which their voice is echoed back at them in the disorienting surround sound. Many people who have never been to this event react with a mix of awe and excitement.
A lot of people have attempted to explain the phenomenon, however, there is no science-based consensus on what causes it. It could be due to a combination of the sound bouncing between building structures as well as the Savannah River and then focused on the planters. This sounds good but who is really sure? The issue is whether the impact was actually intended by the creators of the rectangular structure. The square was not described as an echo chamber and there is no sign in the bricks that indicates that people are supposed to sit in the middle of an “X” and laugh uncomfortably at the bizarre sound of their voice echoing around their heads.
The most intriguing aspect of Echo Square is that it is largely unnoticed despite being in the center of one of the biggest tourist destinations in one of America’s most important cities. There’s not a line of tourists waiting to experience it and the majority of people simply walk by, admiring the river completely unaware of its unique particularities. Anyone who decides to go for it will be treated to one of the more unusual activities the city offers. PSSST -It’s located across from ‘Bob’s Your Uncle’.
