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Historic fort · St. Augustine, Florida
Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
A 17th-century Spanish fort on the shore of Matanzas Bay, built with coquina, a shellstone, and considered the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
The Castillo de San Marcos was built by the Spanish between 1672 and 1695 to protect Saint Augustine and the galleon route returning from the Caribbean to Spain. Before it, the town had nine wooden forts, destroyed by attacks and by the climate.
The fort was built with coquina, a rock made of compacted shells, quarried from Anastasia Island. The porous stone absorbed the impact of cannonballs instead of shattering, and the fort was never taken by force. It withstood two English sieges, in 1702 and 1740, and passed through English, Spanish and American hands by treaties.
The visit includes the courtyard, the vaulted rooms with exhibitions about the fort’s history and the walls, with cannons and views over the bay. On some days, park rangers in period clothing demonstrate cannon firing. The fort is a national monument managed by the National Park Service.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
One to two hours.
Best time
Right at opening, before the heat and the crowds. Cannon demonstrations take place on certain days and times; check before you go.
How to get there
It is on Castillo Drive, at the northern edge of Saint Augustine’s historic downtown. There is paid parking nearby and at the city’s visitor center a few blocks away. Admission is charged.
Tip
Climb the walls first, while it’s less crowded, and leave the exhibit rooms for afterward.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Castillo de San Marcos National Monument
When was Castillo de San Marcos built?
Between 1672 and 1695, by the Spanish, using coquina, a shellstone.
Why was the Castillo de San Marcos never taken?
Coquina, a porous stone, absorbed the impact of cannonballs. The fort withstood two English sieges and only changed hands through treaties.
How long does a visit to Castillo de San Marcos take?
One to two hours.