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This Is The Oldest Building In Florida

The Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery is the oldest building in Florida. It started in 1133 A.D. in Spain and finished in 1141. It’s called the St. Bernard de Clairvaux Church.

Today, it’s in North Miami Beach. How did it get here? William Randolph Hearst bought it in 1925 and had it shipped to the U.S. in 11,000 crates. The building was rebuilt piece by piece.

It’s a beautiful place full of history. Travelers love to visit for its unique story and stunning architecture.

History of the Ancient Spanish Monastery

The construction of the Ancient Spanish Monastery began in 1133 A.D. in Northern Spain. It was completed in 1141. The monastery, originally named Monastery of Our Lady Queen of the Angels, was later renamed in honor of Saint Bernard de Clairvaux.

For nearly 700 years, Cistercian monks lived and worked there.

In the 1830s, the monastery was seized during a social revolution. It was sold and turned into a granary and stable. In 1925, William Randolph Hearst, a famous newspaper publisher, bought the monastery’s cloisters and outbuildings.

He had them dismantled and shipped to the United States in 11,000 crates. Each piece was numbered for easy reassembly.

However, when the crates arrived in the U.S., an outbreak of hoof-and-mouth disease in Spain led to the protective hay being burned.

This caused a delay, and the crates sat in a Brooklyn warehouse for 26 years. After Hearst’s death in 1951, new entrepreneurs purchased the crates and reassembled the monastery in North Miami Beach.

The Reassembly and Rebuilding

Reassembling the monastery was a massive undertaking. It took over a year and cost about $1.5 million at the time, which is roughly $13 million today. In 1952, Time magazine called it the world’s biggest jigsaw puzzle.

The work involved putting together thousands of stones, all of which had been meticulously numbered.

In 1964, Colonel Robert Pentland Jr., a multi-millionaire banker and philanthropist, bought the monastery and gave it to the Episcopal Church.

The church still uses it today as an active place of worship. It holds regular services, weddings, and other community events.

Exploring the Cloisters and Gardens

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is not just a historical building; it is also a beautiful place to visit. The cloisters, gardens, and other buildings offer a peaceful retreat.

The lush, tropical foliage and serene paths make it a perfect spot for reflection and relaxation.

One of the highlights is the labyrinth walk. The labyrinth is a 3,500-year-old walking path that helps visitors find clarity and peace. Unlike a maze, it has only one path leading to the center and back out.

Walking the labyrinth is a meditative experience.

The gardens are filled with beautiful plants and flowers. Statues, fountains, and stone structures add to the peaceful atmosphere.

There are many secluded spots where visitors can sit and meditate or simply enjoy the surroundings.

The Church and Artifacts

The church at the Ancient Spanish Monastery is still an active Episcopal church. It holds services on Sundays and is a popular venue for weddings and other events.

The church features beautiful wooden doors, stone ceilings, and dark wooden pews. Stained-glass windows add to the medieval feel.

Inside the monastery, there are many artifacts on display. These include knight’s armor, medieval Spanish coins, and a Renaissance chalice.

Each artifact has a plaque explaining its history and significance. One of the treasures is an 800-year-old collection of hymns, hand-lettered on lambskin parchment.

The monastery also has a museum area with more artifacts and historical information.

Visitors can learn about the history of the monastery and its journey from Spain to Florida.

The museum provides a deeper understanding of the monastery’s significance and the effort involved in its reconstruction.

Modern Use and Community Events

Today, the Ancient Spanish Monastery is a vibrant community center. It hosts various events, including weddings, photography sessions, and film shoots.

Movies like Ace Ventura: Pet Detective and Rock of Ages were filmed here. The monastery’s stunning architecture and peaceful surroundings make it a popular location for special occasions.

The monastery is also open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the grounds, walk the labyrinth, and learn about the history of this remarkable place.

The church offers free admission to military personnel and their families, and the general admission is very affordable.

The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a unique and fascinating destination. Its history, architecture, and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit for travelers.

Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, or just looking for a quiet place to relax, the monastery offers something for everyone.

Conclusion

The Cloisters of the Ancient Spanish Monastery is more than just an old building. It’s a testament to history, perseverance, and the beauty of architectural heritage. From its origins in Spain to its reassembly in Florida, the monastery’s journey is truly remarkable.

Visitors can immerse themselves in its history, explore its beautiful grounds, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

If you’re ever in North Miami Beach, make sure to visit the Ancient Spanish Monastery. It’s a place where history comes alive, offering a unique glimpse into the past and a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The monastery is a treasure worth exploring and appreciating.

credits: spanishmonastery and stringsusa

 
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