America Begins Here
A monument not only of stone and mortar but of human determination and endurance, the Castillo de San Marcos symbolizes the clash between cultures which ultimately resulted in our uniquely unified nation. Still resonant with the struggles of an earlier time, these original walls provide tangible evidence of America’s grim but remarkable history.
History & Culture
Though its construction started in 1672 the Castillo de San Marcos’ history embodies the struggle and contest of the entire colonial era as well as the foundations of American identity.
Architecture & Construction
The Monument site consists of 20.5 acres and includes a reconstructed section of the walled defense line surrounding the city of St. Augustine incorporating the original city gates. The Castillo de San Marcos' architecture and detail are distinctive and unique. It is the oldest masonry and only extant 17th century fort in North America. As such it is an excellent example of the "bastion system" of fortification
The Monument site consists of 20.5 acres and includes a reconstructed section of the walled defense line surrounding the city of St. Augustine incorporating the original city gates. The Castillo de San Marcos' architecture and detail are distinctive and unique. It is the oldest masonry and only extant 17th century fort in North America. As such it is an excellent example of the "bastion system" of fortification
Arms & Armament The 16th century colonization of American paralleled the development of new weaponry. This technology centered on black powder (gunpowder) based systems. The cannon, first made of iron, later of bronze, became the weapon of political power projection and along with small arms of various types began to dominate the battlefields of both Europe and the New World.
Battles & Sieges
The 300 years of the colonial era
(c. 1500-1800) were ones of constant warfare. As European countries vied with each other for the economic wealth in the “New Worlds” they increasingly came into military conflict as well. Encounters starting in Europe, Africa, Asia or the Americas quickly escalated into international global warfare. The Castillo de San Marcos, though a remote outpost, weathered many attacks during these almost incessant colonial wars.
The 300 years of the colonial era
(c. 1500-1800) were ones of constant warfare. As European countries vied with each other for the economic wealth in the “New Worlds” they increasingly came into military conflict as well. Encounters starting in Europe, Africa, Asia or the Americas quickly escalated into international global warfare. The Castillo de San Marcos, though a remote outpost, weathered many attacks during these almost incessant colonial wars.
Did You Know?Established in 1738 as part of the outer defenses of St. Augustine, Gracia Real de Santa Teresa de Mose, or Fort Mose was the first free black settlement in North America. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida
Did You Know?Started by the Spanish in 1672, the Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in North America. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida
Did You Know?The Gulf Stream was first described by Spanish explorer Ponce de León in 1513. It was the first leg of the route home for the great Spanish treasure fleets. Castillo de San Marcos National Monument, Florida
Climate:
June through November is hurricane season so be sure to check for tropical storms before visiting. Otherwise it's hot and humid with frequent thunderstorms. Wear loose clothing, sun glasses, sun block and a hat. Drink plenty of water before and during your visit
Write to
Castillo de San Marcos NM 1 South Castillo Drive St. Augustine, FL 32084
PhoneVisitor Information(904) 829-6506
PhoneVisitor Information(904) 829-6506
Fax(904) 823-9388
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