Florida's Historic Coast Travel Planner 2015 | Page 13

Authentic Historical Experiences by the Dozen Avilés Street The oldest public street in the country, dating back to 1570, was originally called Hospital Street because of the Spanish military hospital there. Plaza de la Constitución Established in 1573, the beautiful town square is named for its monument to the Spanish constitution of 1812, which is believed to be the only remaining such monument in the world. Gonzalez-Alvarez House Castillo de San Marcos Castillo de San Marcos Mission Nombre de Dios Completed by the Spanish in 1695 to protect their treasure fleets from the English and pirates, it’s the oldest masonry Fort in the U.S. and a national monument and national park. The first Holy Mass was led by Father Francisco Lopez here in 1565. The mission was also the home to the first Catholic parish in what would become the United States. Lightner Museum The home of Spanish soldier Tomas Gonzalez built in 1702, the house is a mix of early Spanish architecture and English influences made dur