Aviles Street—How Our Haunted Travels became Haunted

Aviles Street, located in St. Augustine, Florida, is the primary site that initiated the journey for Our Haunted Travels. During our second visit to the city in 2010, we decided to take a ghost hunt and ghost tour to some of the locations we already visited in 2006. What we experienced while walking down this street late at night changed our lives forever.

While we were on the ghost tour at the Spanish Military Hospital, which is located on Aviles Street, we captured our first orb on camera; however, we did not realize it at the time. Later the tour guide explained to us what was potentially on our video. It was a couple of years later that we started going through all of our photographs and examining some of the potential evidence.

In our video, we discuss the history of Aviles Street, share our findings from reviewing the photos, and tell a brief story about the bricks used to construct the streets of St. Augustine, including an explanation for the numerous patches on Aviles Street.

We don't have much media from this location; however, we do have some intriguing photos. As you look below, you will see the patches in the street and the orbs we captured while walking back to our bed and breakfast after the ghost tour.

About Aviles Street

Aviles Street is not only one of the oldest streets in St. Augustine, Florida, but it also holds immense historical and cultural significance that reflects the city’s diverse heritage. This thoroughfare offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the evolution of St. Augustine from its colonial roots to its current status as a vibrant tourist destination. Below is an expanded overview of its rich history:

Aviles Street traces its origins back to the early days of Spanish colonization, established shortly after the founding of St. Augustine in 1565 by Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, who was the first governor of Florida. This street was named in his honor, symbolizing the Spanish influence that permeated the region. The establishment of Aviles Street was a strategic decision, as it connected key areas within the settlement, facilitating trade and communication among the early settlers.

The street is emblematic of the Spanish colonial urban planning style, characterized by its narrow, winding pathways that were designed to provide shade from the intense Florida sun. The layout included not only the street itself but also adjacent plazas that served as communal gathering spaces for residents. The design mirrors the era's social structure, emphasizing the importance of public spaces in community life.

As St. Augustine transitioned into the 1800s, Aviles Street evolved into a bustling cultural and social epicenter. The street became lined with various businesses, including shops, taverns, and artisan studios, which catered to both locals and visitors. The presence of residential homes along the street fostered a close-knit community atmosphere, where neighbors interacted regularly. This period saw Aviles Street hosting numerous social events, festivals, and markets that celebrated the city's diverse cultural heritage.

The architectural landscape of Aviles Street is a testament to the various influences that have shaped St. Augustine over the centuries. Visitors can observe a captivating blend of styles, including Spanish Colonial architecture with its stucco exteriors and red-tiled roofs, Mediterranean Revival elements that emerged in the early 20th century, and Victorian influences that reflect the prosperity of the era. Each building tells a story, contributing to the street’s unique historical narrative.

In the latter part of the 20th century, a renewed interest in historical preservation emerged, leading to significant efforts aimed at maintaining the integrity of Aviles Street. Local historians, preservationists, and city planners collaborated on restoration projects that sought to revive the street's original character while adapting to modern needs. These initiatives included refurbishing historic buildings, enhancing public spaces, and implementing guidelines to ensure that any new developments harmonized with the historical aesthetic.

Today, Aviles Street stands as a prominent attraction for tourists exploring St. Augustine’s rich history. The street is home to an array of art galleries showcasing local artists, quaint shops offering unique crafts and souvenirs, and a diverse selection of restaurants that serve both traditional and contemporary cuisine. The vibrant atmosphere, combined with the historical charm of the street, creates an inviting environment for visitors, contributing significantly to the local economy.

Aviles Street serves as a living testament to the rich and multifaceted history of St. Augustine, encapsulating the city's evolution from a colonial outpost to a thriving cultural center. Its historical significance, coupled with its architectural beauty, continues to attract visitors from around the world, allowing them to experience a piece of Florida's storied past. As Aviles Street moves forward while remaining committed to preserving its unique character and embracing the vibrancy of modern life, it ensures that it continues to be a cherished part of St. Augustine's legacy for generations to come.