Birmingham 101: Fun Things To Know About The 'Pittsburgh of the South'

Birmingham is a place like no other. And whether you grew up here, recently moved to the area or you’re just an occasional visitor, you know that Birmingham has its own special traditions and history that make it so unique.

A few things to know:

• Birmingham is known as the "Pittsburgh of the South" due to its strong history in iron and steel production. The Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark is a testament to this industrial past, with preserved furnaces and machinery that offer a glimpse into the city's history.
• Did you know that Birmingham is home to the largest cast iron statue in the world? The Vulcan statue stands 56 feet tall and weighs over 100,000 pounds, overlooking the city from atop Red Mountain. Visitors can even take a tour of the statue and learn about its history.
• Birmingham is also the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. Visitors can explore the Civil Rights District and visit the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute to learn more about this important part of history.
• Sports buffs won’t want to miss a visit to the oldest baseball park in the United States, Rickwood Field. Built in 1910, the Birmingham site is still in use today and is a popular destination for baseball fans and history buffs alike. The park has been featured in several movies, including "Cobb" and "42."
• Finally, Birmingham is a city that loves its music. From jazz to blues to country, the city has a rich musical heritage. Visitors can catch live music at venues like Iron City and Saturn, or explore the city's music history at the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame.

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