On August 28, the Feast Day of Saint Augustine, Don Pedro Menendez de Aviles first sighted the coast of Florida. Twelve days later, on September 8, he stepped ashore, planted the Spanish flag into the sandy soil and, with soldiers and settlers who had traveled with him and Timicuans who greeted his arrival watching, Menendez founded a new city and named it St. Augustine. The year was 1565.

From that day until today, the City of St. Augustine has continued to survive and thrive, making it the longest continually inhabited European founded city in the United States, or more commonly called the “Nation’s Oldest City.”

Today St. Augustine continues to thrive and prosper as it proudly proclaims over four centuries of history that includes Spanish and English, Greek and Minorcan, Native American and African American influences.

A visitor to St. Augustine may delve into the city’s history by visiting one of many museums depicting the way of life of early Spanish colonists, or may choose to simply enjoy the feel of history by strolling the narrow old world streets. Even if history is not a center of interest, visitors cannot help but appreciate the rich heritage that makes St. Augustine a unique getaway.

To learn more about the facinating City of St. Augustine and surrounding attractions, visit the St. Augstine official City Website.

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