Plaza Ferdinand VII

Plaza Ferdinand VII is a rectangular park featuring a decorative fountain at its north end, a central obelisk, and a bronze bust of Andrew Jackson. The grounds occupy 2 acres bounded by Government, Jefferson, Zarragossa, and Palafox Streets in the Historic Pensacola Village district.

The Spanish crown transferred Florida to the United States during a ceremony held here on July 17, 1821. This handover marked a turning point in the region's political history and Pensacola's future direction.

The central obelisk commemorates William Dudley Chipley and his role in expanding rail connections to the area. This monument represents the economic growth that transformed Pensacola during the 1800s.

The plaza sits in downtown Pensacola and is easily accessible on foot from surrounding shops and restaurants. Visitors should know the grounds offer free access and can be explored at any time of day.

Archaeological digs in 2002 uncovered foundations of British structures dating to when Pensacola served as capital of British West Florida. These underground remains reveal layers of colonial history buried beneath the modern plaza.

Location: Pensacola

Location: Escambia County

GPS coordinates: 30.40750,-87.21389

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:03