A visit to Florida’s Historic Coast would not be complete without exploring the beauty, reverence, and inspirational presence of its magnificent historic churches.
As the location of many historic houses of worship, St. Augustine offers many opportunities to visit a variety of religious sites of significance within walking distance to each other or a trolley ride away. Here are some itineraries that can be conducted within 2 to 3 days.
++The story of Father Felix Valera is dear to many in St. Augustine, where he spent much of his childhood. Born in Havana, Valera was an esteemed professor and many Cuban leaders were his students. He advocated for the education of women and introduced many teaching innovations. He also asked for Cuban self-rule and the end to slavery. Condemned to death by the Spanish crown in 1823, Varela escaped to New York, where he lived the rest of his life. He remained an active voice for Cubans and New York Irish immigrants until his death in St. Augustine in 1853. Originally interred at Tolomato Cemetery, his remains were later relocated to Havana. On the bicentennial of his birth, the U.S postal service issued a stamp in his name.
(*Call ahead or contact via email for group tours. Many offer self-guided tours and accommodate groups. Check individual sites.)
Tour operators looking for more information or assistance with historic houses of worship itineraries, group tours and room block accommodations, please contact Evelyn Lopez-Kelley at EKelley@FloridasHistoricCoast.com
