What does a pottery factory, winemaking, a U.S. President, an inclined railway and a religious tradition involving steep church steps all have in common? They are all colorful threads in the rich history of one Cincinnati's famous ‘seven hills': Mount Adams.

Towering around 400 feet above downtown Cincinnati to the east, on a bluff originally named Mt. Ida, this area received its present name in 1843 to honor U.S. President John Quincy Adams, who dedicated the then world-renowned Cincinnati Observatory on the site. The area was famous as a wine-making center in the US during the early 1800s when Nicholas Longworth developed and cultivated the famous Catawba grapes in his vineyard here. In the early 1860s, the Holy Cross Immaculata Church was built at the pinnacle of Mount Adams, and the steep steps of the church became the site for thousands of Roman Catholics to “pray the steps” as a customary part of their Good Friday observance. In the 1870s, an inclined railway was built from downtown Cincinnati to Mount Adams to facilitate travel up and down the hill. In 1892, Longworth's granddaughter Maria moved her pottery factory to Mount Adams, producing internationally-known Rookwood Pottery there until 1959.

Today, “The Hill” is a unique compact and eclectic community. It offers quaint historic residences along narrow winding streets, an exciting assortment of eateries (including the former Rookwood factory, where an intimate dinner can be enjoyed in the old kiln!) trendy retailers, and of course, spectacular views of both sides of the Ohio River. It boasts some of the most sought-after single-family and condo residences in Greater Cincinnati, and sale prices reflect the desirability of its real estate. Adjacent Eden Park is home to Cincinnati's Art Museum, Playhouse in the Park and Krohn Conservatory, so it has become a natural location for many of the area's artisans to call home.

Definitely check out Mount Adams if you're looking for an exciting blend of rich history, Old World charm, urban chic and fine arts. And by the way, don't forget those incomparable views!