There is another historic building you simply can't miss... even if
you tried. The Castillo de San Marcos is a huge fort, constructed
between the city's old northern gate, and the waterfront. It's been
standing watch over the city since the late 1600's. It was built by
Spain, and later operated by the British empire, and then the United
States (which changed its name to Fort Marion), and the Confederacy.
Although it changed hands, it never fell to an enemy.
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The Castillo de San Marcos is run by the
National Park Service, so if you have an annual pass, you won't
have to pay. Otherwise, adult admission is $6, children 15 and
under are free. |
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Once you've crossed the old (and now dry) mote, you pass through the
fortified walls of the Castillo.
Inside, you'll find dimly lit, cavernous concrete rooms, which
provided a home for the troops, as well as a chapel and storage
rooms.
Climb to the top of the fort, and you'll find several bronze and
iron cannons. Several times a day, volunteers dress in historically
accurate Spanish attire, march to the top of the Castillo, and fire
one of those cannons.
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If you enjoy the Castillo de San Marcos,
you may also want to check out Fort Matanzas, which is about 15
minutes south of St. Augustine. Access is easy from A1A,
however, you will have to take a ferry to the fort itself. Boats
leave every half hour. You'll find more information
here. |
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