@meganexploresitall's Review of Castillo de San Marcos National Monument - St. Augustine, Florida

This is the oldest fort in the United States, and I just bought it. This is Castillo de San Marcos, located on the western shore of Matanza Bay in St. Augustine, Florida. This incredible stone fortress with a view is over 350 years old and still standing strong. Built by the Spanish in 1672 to protect against pirates and rival empires, the Castillo has seen it all. Battles, sieges, even a cannonball or two. Oh, and the fort worked really well. In fact, it worked so well that it was never taken by force. Its walls, made from compressed seashells, absorbed enemy fire like an actual sponge. Inside, it's like stepping into a time capsule. You'll find a ton of historical artifacts from cannons to maps and even an eerily small jail cell where enemies were held. I actually started just feeling claustrophobic just looking at it. But from the top, you'll enjoy stunning views of the bay and downtown St. Augustine. So whether you're here for the stories, the artifacts, or just to feel like a pirate for a day, the Castillo is a must-see.