![California Standard 5.1.1 Describe how geography and climate influenced the way various nations lived and adjusted to the natural environment, including locations of villages, the distinct structures that they built, and how they obtained food, [MORE]](../../assets/standards/511.gif)
St. Augustine, Florida, is the oldest city in the United States. The Spanish founded the city on September 8, 1565. For the next 200 years, St. Augustine was under Spanish rule. Today, you can explore the historic sites of the city and gain a glimpse into St. Augustine's past. You can see the Spanish influence in the city's historic district.
Explore the Oldest Wooden School House in St. Augustine's historic district. Built about 1780, it is oldest wooden building still standing in the city.
Explore the heavily reinforced Castillo de San Marcos. You will then understand why the fort was never captured by military force.
See the small chapel marking the spot where the first Spanish colonists came ashore in 1565. The beautiful site is marked by a 208-foot cross.
The Spanish Quarter Museum is a living museum. See actors dress and perform the tasks of Spanish colonists living in St. Augustine in 1740.
