Our History 

Saluda, NC and Carunchio, Italy were officially joined as Sister Cities in 2015. The towns have amazing similarities….approximately the same population numbers and dynamics, same altitude and same latitude.  What began as visits by Saludians to Carunchio’s fabulous Palazzo Tour D’Eau, a restored 1700’s French Palace built by wealthy vintners, turned into a love affair between the two peoples.   Until 2025, both cities had elementary schools, and the two schools and children connected in ways that enhanced their understanding of different cultures, introduced new foods, fostered friendships, and offered opportunities for art and creative expression. The children exchanged books, letters, drawings, videos, emails and stories about their lives, schools and towns. Carunchio no longer has a elementary school. However, SSC is exploring new ways to engage

with Carunchio's younger population.

From 2015 - 2025, Saluda Sister City operated under

Saluda Downtown Foundation. In 2023, Saluda Sister City formed its own Board of Directors. And in 2025,  received 

its 501(c)(3) Non-Profit status.