Welcome to this audio walking tour of St. Augustine, the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in the contiguous United States! In this episode, we take you on a 1.5-mile circular journey through the historic heart of the city, exploring centuries of Spanish, British, and American history.

Episode Highlights:

• Castillo de San Marcos National Monument: We begin our tour at the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States. Built out of coquina limestone by the Spanish in the 17th century, it offers incredible views of the Matanzas River.
• The Old City Gates & St. George Street: We walk through the iconic white pillars that once served as the only entrance through the city's defense line. From there, we stroll down the famous pedestrian-only thoroughfare, passing historic gems like the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse.
• Plaza de la Constitución & Cathedral Basilica: Discover the social center of the city since 1573 and marvel at the Spanish Renaissance architecture and stunning murals of the Cathedral.
• Aviles Street: Wander down what is known as the oldest street in the United States, featuring a quiet, European-alleyway feel, brick paving, art galleries, and the historic Ximenez-Fatio House Museum.
• Flagler College & The Lightner Museum: Experience the Gilded Age grandeur brought to the city by railroad magnate Henry Flagler. We explore the courtyards and Tiffany stained glass of the former Hotel Ponce de Leon, now Flagler College, and the eclectic collections housed in the former Hotel Alcazar.
• Memorial Presbyterian Church: A stunning 1889 tribute to Flagler's daughter, inspired by St. Mark's Basilica in Venice and famous for its massive copper dome.
• The Bayfront & Bridge of Lions: We wrap up the tour by walking north along the scenic sea wall. Along the way, we pass the Bridge of Lions, guarded by two marble Medici lion statues named "Fiel" and "Firme."

Travel Tips for this Route:

• Parking: The Historic Downtown Garage on Cordova Street is the most convenient starting point, located right next to the Castillo de San Marcos.
• Footwear: St. Augustine is highly walkable, but the historic, uneven brick streets require comfortable walking shoes.
• Refreshments: Beat the Florida humidity by grabbing a gourmet ice pop from The Hyppo on St. George Street.

Sources

• St. Augustine – Travel guide at Wikivoyage: https://en.wikivoyage.org/w/index.php?title=St._Augustine&oldid=5139205
• St. Augustine, Florida - Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=St._Augustine,_Florida&oldid=1338534967

This podcast is for entertainment purposes only, please double check directions and take precautions if going on a walking tour. Remember to look before crossing the road! This episode was produced with the use of AI.