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Historic building · St. Augustine, Florida
Flagler College
A college housed in the former Hotel Ponce de León, opened in 1888 by Henry Flagler, a Spanish Renaissance–style building with Tiffany stained glass, frescoes and electric lighting installed by Thomas Edison.
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 Flagler College
The Ponce de León Hotel was built by entrepreneur Henry Flagler, a partner in Standard Oil, and opened in 1888 when he extended the railroad to Saint Augustine to turn the city into a winter resort. The design is by architects John Carrère and Thomas Hastings, in Spanish Renaissance style, with towers, red ceramic roofs, and a courtyard with a fountain.
It was one of the first large buildings made of cast concrete in the United States, with coquina mixed into the cement. It had electric lighting from the opening, with generators provided by Thomas Edison’s company. The interior features stained glass by Louis Comfort Tiffany, frescoes and carved woodwork, especially in the former dining room and the rotunda.
The hotel operated until 1967 and the following year became home to Flagler College. Students use the building daily, and the interior can be visited on guided tours.
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
About one hour for the guided tour.
Best time
During the day, at the times of the guided tours, which usually have limited availability. Confirm the times before you go.
How to get there
It’s on King Street, in Saint Augustine’s historic downtown, a few steps from St. George Street and Constitution Square.
Tip
Take the guided tour: only it enters the former dining room with the Tiffany stained glass.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Flagler College
What is Flagler College?
A college housed in the former Ponce de León Hotel, opened in 1888 by Henry Flagler, with Tiffany stained glass and Spanish Renaissance architecture.
Can you visit Flagler College inside?
Yes, on guided tours with limited availability. Confirm the times before you go.
Who built the Ponce de León Hotel?
Henry Flagler, to a design by architects John Carrère and Thomas Hastings.