Situated between Jacksonville and Palm Coast on Florida's Atlantic-facing 'First Coast', Saint Augustine bears the proud distinction of being the oldest continually inhabited, European-settled city in the continental United States. This fact is no mere point of trivia, however, as the history of this city of 12,975 is a major reason why it is such a wonderful place to live today. Though repeatedly attacked by both native and pirate forces since its founding by Pedro Menendez de Aviles in 1565, contemporary Saint Augustine is home to a number of authentic, original Spanish Colonial style homes, churches, and other structures. Through centuries of colonial social and political struggles, wars, and economic changes, these beautiful edifices have borne silent witness to the establishment and gradual growth of one of America's most unique and festive communities. Today, they overlook a warm, tropical city that is noted for its many public events, including one that simulates a pirate raid, as well as tours, art shows, and music venues that celebrate the town's unique history as a crossroads of Spanish and Anglo-American culture. As Saint Augustine began to develop in earnest after Florida's annexation by the U.S. in the 19th Century, its historic downtown area also sports a number of Victorian era homes and shops. Art Deco and Spanish Colonial Revival properties that were constructed after the arrival of Henry Flagler's East Coast Railway turned Florida's once inhospitable Atlantic coast into a major tourist destination line much of the city, as well, making the so-called "Old City" one of the most picturesque places to explore in the nation. Comfortable, friendly, and benefitting from exceptional year-round weather as well as careful city planning, Saint Augustine is assured to retain this unique and friendly environment for generations to come.