How old is St Augustine?

St Augustine, Florida is a coastal city located on the Atlantic Coast of northern Florida, approximately 30 miles south of Jacksonville. It is the county seat of St. Johns County and is the oldest city in the continental United States, named as it is in honor of the fourth-century Christian theologian and philosopher Augustine of Hippo (Aurelius Augustinus). Dating its founding to 1565, St Augustine is one of the oldest cities in the United States, celebrating its quincentennial in 2015. But how old is St Augustine really?Well, St Augustine is more than 458 years old. It was settled by the Spanish in 1565 and established as a city in 1566. A city charter was granted to St Augustine outlined in a “Cedula” issued by King Philip of Spain dated March 12, 1566. This established the town of St Augustine under royal authority as a fortified coastal port to aid in the defense of the Kingdom of Spain. The Spanish claimed the area of northeast Florida was under their control despite earlier settlements by England in 1562, most notably explored by Jean Ribault and made famous by his ally René Goulaine de Laudonnière. St Augustine became a bustling port town with a vast number of Spanish residents living along the riverbanks of the Matanzas River, working for the government and trading with Native Americans. Its strategic location was a major factor in its growth, allowing commercial and military vessels to come and go with ease and providing defense against hostile forces.The town was not without difficulties, however. In 1702 it was reduced to rubble by English colonials and their Native American allies, who burned it to the ground during Queen Anne’s War (part of the War of the Spanish Succession). It was later rebuilt under Governor James Moore, but that would not be complete until 1728.Throughout its turbulent history, St Augustine endured a wide range of cultural influences including French and Spanish as well as Native American culture. The city also experienced multiple occupations by English authorities from 1763 onward. This speaks to the resiliency and strength of the local population who continually rebuilt despite being invaded and attacked on multiple occasions.Today, St Augustine has established itself as a popular tourist destination for its many historical sites and gorgeous beaches. From horse-drawn carriage rides through the old streets to glass-bottom boat tours to explore the aquatic life beneath its surface, no shortage of historical attractions will bring visitors back time and again. The Castillo de San Marcos fort which dates back to 1672 stands as a reminder of the city’s rich history while nearby Anastasia Island provides an idyllic backdrop for taking a relaxing walk along the beach and enjoying some much needed sun.In conclusion, St Augustine is a city with a remarkable history spanning over 458 years. While much has changed since it was first settled in 1565, its culture is still heavily influenced by events from its past. As such, it continues to be an important part of American history and a popular tourist destination for people from around the world looking to explore its unique culture. If you’re interested in learning more about St Augustine’s fascinating history, you can find a great overview on visitstaugustine.com, which also contains more detailed information about activities and attractions related to the city’s past.

An Insider’s Guide to St. Augustine: America’s Oldest City

St. Augustine is a charming city located on the northeast coast of Florida. It is regarded as the oldest city in America, and it boasts of a rich history that dates back to the European colonial era. As a tourist, you will be thrilled by the colorful architecture, the cobbled streets, and the picturesque view of the Atlantic Ocean. This insider’s guide to St. Augustine highlights some of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions to ensure that you enjoy your visit to the fullest.

Local Attractions

St. Augustine is filled with many interesting tourist attractions. Among them is the Castillo de San Marcos, a 17th-century fort that reflects the influence of the Spanish colonial period. Next up is the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum, where you can climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy incredible views of the ocean and the city. If you’re interested in art, you should visit the Lightner Museum, which houses exquisite collections of fine arts, crafts, and artifacts. For nature lovers, there’s the St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, where you will see alligators, crocodiles, birds, and other animals native to Florida.

Dining Spots

St. Augustine has an impressive culinary scene that features diverse cuisines and dining spots for every budget. For a waterfront dining experience, head to the Conch House, an open-air restaurant that serves Caribbean-inspired seafood and drinks. If you’re looking for an elegant dining spot, try the Collage Restaurant, a contemporary establishment with an extensive wine list and a creative menu. For a casual meal, visit The Floridian, a quirky diner that specializes in Southern comfort food made with locally sourced ingredients.

Cultural Experiences

St. Augustine has a unique cultural heritage that you can experience through various activities. To gain a deeper understanding of the city’s history, take a walking tour with a local guide from City Walks. You can also visit the Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park, where you will learn about the Timucua Indians and Ponce de Leon’s quest for the fountain of youth. The St. Augustine Amphitheatre is an excellent venue for enjoying live music, theater, and comedy shows.

Local History

St. Augustine has a long and varied history that is visible in the city’s architecture, landmarks, and museums. The city was founded in 1565 by Spanish explorer Pedro Menendez de Aviles, and his legacy is honored at the Menendez Birthplace and Museum, where you can learn about his life and times. The Colonial Quarter is a living history museum that recreates the 16th, 17th, and 18th century life in St. Augustine. For a glimpse into the life of Henry Flagler, visit the Lightner Museum, which was once a luxury hotel that he built in the 19th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

St. Augustine has some hidden gems that are worth exploring to make your trip memorable. Visit the St. Augustine Distillery, which produces small-batch spirits from locally sourced ingredients. Take a stroll along the St. Augustine Beach boardwalk, where you can enjoy the sea breeze, watch locals fishing off the pier, and savor ice cream from one of the many shops. For a special treat, visit the Whetstone Chocolate Factory, where you can tour the factory and indulge in high-quality chocolate.

In conclusion, St. Augustine is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nature, this guide highlights some of the best places to visit in America’s oldest city.