St.
Augustine Historic Landmarks
Beyond the spectacular white beaches, palm trees, and near-tropical
climate of St. Augustine, Florida, what really make it stand out
from the crowd is its historical
landmarks. The area is littered with remnants of a long since
past era. Many who come to the area are surprised that such “ancient
history” even exists within the United States. But then again,
that helps to explain why St. Augustine can boast as being the oldest
city of European origin in the entire nation.
One of the first sites you’ll want to visit if history
interests you, is a building, aptly named “The Oldest House”.
This building is enshrined as a National Historic Landmark and
dates back to the early 17th century! The walls of the “Oldest
House” are made of a material known as “tabby”-
which is a mixture of shells, sand, and lime. Another feature
that speaks of the history of the area is the large Mulberry Tree
that grows in the front yard. This dates back to when a fleeting
silk culture dominated the area.
Another location that is steeped in history is the “Authentic
Old Jail”. A visit here will assure you that things certainly
have changed in the business of incarceration. This dungeon like
place contains lovely items such as ball and chains and heavy
duty manacles. One trip here and you’ll know that this was
no place of luxury for the criminals of the time.
There are numerous forts and fortification structures throughout
St. Augustine area. These include the Mission of Nombre de Dios,
and the Castillo de San Marcos. Like the names suggest, these
structures demonstrate a Spanish-inspired architectural style
that is seldom seen in North America.
Yet another site that history lovers won’t want to miss
is what is known as America’s first fully-free black community,
Fort Mose. This area, located just north of the city, was formed
in 1738 and marks a turning in the tide in race relations that
the rest of the nation didn’t see until centuries later.
While little remains of the original structures, an exhibit at
Ponce De Leon Mall, fills you in on the history in detail.
Perhaps the greatest draw of all, in terms of historic landmarks
in the St. Augustine area, is what is known as the Old St. Augustine
Village. By now you might have noticed that “Old”
and “Ole” are common names in St. Augustine! This
is an area of the city where many original building structures
still stand. Here you will definitely feel as if you’ve
stepped back in time. A walled block of houses combined to create
an atmosphere that is unlike any other you’re likely to
experience this side of Old Madrid!
Without a doubt, if history is what you’re looking for,
St. Augustine will not only entertain you, it will enthrall you.
And how many other places on the continent can boast of year-round
sunshine, white beaches and tropical surf to go with the historic
nature of the area? Such natural beauty certainly makes your “history
education” go down easy!
For more information on a Florida
Vacation Package in historic and charming St. Augustine, click
here…
|
