FORT ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA

Castillo de San Marcos

St. Augustine, Florida

The oldest masonry fort in the continental US, built of coquina stone, with centuries of garrison history.

History

Spain built the Castillo to guard St. Augustine, and it never fell to assault. It later held prisoners, including Native American captives who died far from home. Visitors describe cold spots in the cells, the smell of smoke, and figures along the gun deck at dusk.

Reported phenomena

Cold cells, phantom cannon smoke, and sentries seen on the walls.