Saint Augustine, Florida
St. Augustine is the second oldest city in United States territory after San Juan, Puerto Rico (founded in 1521), Even the first European known to have explored the coasts of Florida was the Spanish explorer and governor of Puerto Rico, Juan Ponce de León, the city was founded in 1565 by the admiral Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, Florida’s first governor.
Today the city of St. Augustine is a popular travel destination for those in the United States, Canada, and Europe. The city is a well-preserved example of Spanish-style buildings and 18th- and 19th-century architecture. St. Augustine is a very walkable city, with several oceanfront parks. The mild subtropical climate allows for a 12-month tourist season, and many tours operators are based in St. Augustine, offering walking and trolley tours..
One place to mention is the Castillo de San Marcos.The Castillo de San Marcos was a post of the Spanish Empire guarding St. Augustine, the first permanent European settlement in the continental United States.
During the 18th century, the Castillo went from Spanish control to British and back to the Spanish, all by treaty. The Spanish remained in power in Florida until the area was purchased by the United States in 1821. Called Fort Marion at this time, the Castillo was used by the U.S. army until 1899. The Castillo was made a national monument in 1924.
If you would like to visit virtually the castle, we invite you to enjoy the following video.
Sources: https://www.visitstaugustine.com and Wikipedia
360° Video: https://www.virtualmerse.com
Photo: https://www.bluegreenvacations.com/
