Part 3/8:
No exploration of St. Augustine is complete without a visit to the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument. Jill Leverett, a park ranger, provides an insight into the fort's rich history, which dates back to its construction during the Spanish colonial era. The fort’s unique coquina stone and medieval architectural style are rare finds in the U.S., making it a significant historical site. It has served multiple functions over the years, from a military stronghold to a prison for Native Americans during times of conflict. Leverett emphasizes the often-overlooked stories of how enslaved individuals fleeing English rule found sanctuary under Spanish governance, making the fort a symbol of both struggle and hope.