Nombre de Dios

Nombre de Dios, America’s first mission, is one of St. Augustine’s most sacred and beautiful sites.

Look for the 208 ft. stainless steel cross rising above the trees on the banks of the Matanzas River and you will have found it.

It was here in 1565 that Pedro Menendez de Aviles landed and claimed the land for Spain and the Church.

Father Francisco Lopez de Mendoza Grajales, his chaplain, came ashore and held the first parish Mass on this site, now recognized as the birthplace of Christianity in the United States.

There are many interesting and historic buildings and memorials throughout the Mission grounds.

*Prince of Peace Church – built in 1965 of coquina to commemorate the Four Hundredth anniversary of the Mission.

*Father Lopez statue – a bronze memorial just over the foot bridge.

*The Cross – a reminder of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. Also, a tribute to the Catholic Church for their role in the history of Florida and our Nation.

*Our Lady of La Leche Chapel and Shrine – old Spanish style chapel of Our Lady of the Milk and Happy Delivery.

*Archaeological Excavations – work conducted on the Mission grounds by the University of Florida unearthed one of the earliest Spanish fortifications in Florida.

I highly recommend visiting this peaceful and beautiful site.

There is no fee although donations are gratefully accepted and appreciated.

Guided Walking Tour

Hours: M – F 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Saturday 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.
Sunday 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m.