So you’re heading to Saint Augustine? It’s no surprise, as it is well-known for attracting people from all over the world to see the historic city. With attractions like the Castillo de San Marcos, the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States, The Oldest Wooden School House, Flagler College, and numerous other historic landmarks, your craving for history will be met. From walking and trolley tours to horse and carriage rides, there is no shortage of ways to learn about the oldest city in the country.

That being said, there’s no better way to get immersed in the rich history than to stay in it when lodging at Casa Monica Resort and Spa. It’s hard to miss when walking around downtown, with its immense beauty and grandeur. From boasting 138 one-of-a-kind guest rooms and eclectic menu at Costa Brava, to the temptations at Poseidon Spa, the best discoveries await at one of the finest historic hotels in Florida.

The Casa Monica Hotel has lived many lives. It was first opened in 1888 by Franklin W. Smith. Soon after the completion of the hotel, it was then sold to the famous oil and railroad tycoon Henry Flagler where it was then renamed the Cordova Hotel. The property was abandoned during The Great Depression when the stock market crashed and was later turned into a courthouse where it remained until the 90’s.

The Chairman and CEO of Kessler Collection, Richard Kessler, brought it back to life and restored it to its original name. Preserving history is one of the things that he enjoys the most. When you walk through the beautiful hotel, it will be hard to miss the gorgeous details weaved through every ornate design. Across from the front desk is an American Eastlake side table with mahogany veneer over fruitwood with 24k gold accents, dating back to 1860. To preserve the original Moroccan-style design, he added in the concierge desk, which is early 19th century from Morocco and is inlaid with mother of pearl. The chandeliers throughout the hotel are custom made from the Hotel in Morocco. Notice the beautiful art around the beams and arches in the lobby? They were hand-stenciled, painted, and gold-leafed by local artist, Tina Davis.

There’s just so much to do and see when visiting the beautiful city of Saint Augustine. But for a treasured experience, there’s no place to stay other than at the Casa Monica Hotel and Spa.