Known by many as the “Ancient City” you will definitely find plenty to explore here in the city of Saint Augustine. One of the most fascinating areas is the Colonial Spanish Quarter which still retains the atmosphere of an old Spanish Colonial city. Here you can experience some of the best in Spanish Colonial architecture in a unique feast for the eyes that is difficult to find anywhere else in the country.
You will also be interested in the historic Bridge of Lions. This bridge links Anastasia Island, one of the most popular tourist attractions of St Augustine in Florida with Saint Augustine itself. Originally built in 1895 the wooden bridge was replaced with a more permanent structure in 1918. This unique bridge is part of the rich history in Saint Augustine and many efforts have gone into its preservation. It is a real treat to see for any visitor to the city of Saint Augustine and also takes visitors to the beautiful and exciting Anastasia Island.
There are also several unique forts to see here in Saint Augustine. One of these is Fort Matanzas, which is today a National Monument. This unique and important fort was originally built by the Spanish in the 18th century to defend the Matanzas Inlet from possible British invasion and pirates. This unique monument serves as a reminder to Americans today of the rich Spanish past on display here at Saint Augustine in Florida.
An even more spectacular fort is to be found at the Castillo de San Marcos. Even older than Fort Matanzas the Castillo de San Marcos was originally built by the Spanish in 1672. This proud fort was the first military outpost set up to defend the people of Saint Augustine. Although it has been controlled by a number of nations throughout its proud history, the Castillo de San Marcos takes pride in having never once been taken in military battle in its centuries of service.
Another fascinating sight to see on your vacation to the city of Saint Augustine in Florida is the Mission of Nombre de Dios (Mission of the Name of God) and Shrine of Our Lady of La Leche. The origins of this important mission and shrine date all the way back to the founding of the city of Saint Augustine. The story goes that it was on the spot that the mission and shrine now stands that the admiral Pedro Menendez de Aviles knelt to kiss a wooden cross given to him by Father Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales, the chaplain on their expedition. It remains an important historical monument of both Florida and the Catholic Church here in the New World to this day.
For those looking to explore one of the most richly historical and multiculturally diverse areas in all of the United States there are few better places to visit than the city of Saint Augustine. Here at Saint Augustine in Florida there is plenty to explore and a lot of rich heritage to experience. If you ever grow bored of learning and seeing all of the history that surrounds you, don't worry. You're right on the beach for plenty of fun in the sun.