The history of Florida begins at Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Constructed by the Spanish in 1672, over a century after the city's founding by the Spanish conquistadores, the fort came under British control in 1763. Twenty years later, the fort went back to Spanish hands. It was a U.S. army base between 1821 and 1924, when the U.S. government declared it a national monument. The fort became part of a national park after nearly 250 years of military service. The deactivated fort now attracts tourists with its storied history and well-preserved military architecture. Explore the history of this structure by walking among its stone walls, or join a guided walk with one of the park's rangers. Make Castillo de San Marcos National Monument a part of your St. Augustine vacation plans using our St. Augustine trip itinerary maker website.
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Castillo de San Marcos National Monument reviews
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We walked by the fort but did not think that there was value for the money for us. I think that if this is a national monument then the price should be free.
We walked by the fort but did not think that there was value for the money for us. I think that if this is a national monument then the price should be free. more »
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We did not do a guided tour, just walked around and read the information provided. Great history of the early settlers.
We did not do a guided tour, just walked around and read the information provided. Great history of the early settlers. more »
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The rangers love to help educate any one from the age of speaking till your last breath. They do not care what age you are they are eager to help and love their jobs. These individuals spend a lot of time learning to be able to answer some of the ODD questions people asked. My son does the junior ranger program at every national park we go to and it had been a few years since we went. We brought his book from like 5 years ago with him and the rangers were so excited to see a book that they no longer offered. They let him keep his book and told him just how special his book was. They really want everyone to have a wonderful time. I will definitely visit this place a few more times in my life.
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The history of this fort is worth the trip! It’s located in beautiful downtown St Augustine. I recommend parking in the parking garage located by the visitor center. As you will want to enjoy the old Main Street with shops restaurants and pubs. At night the place liven ups with awesome entertainment in almost every restaurant. Honestly think 99% of the entertainers need to get in America’s Got Talent!
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