Nombre de Dios

Nombre de Dios is a Catholic mission set on spacious green grounds in St. Augustine with religious structures, shrines, statues, and a 208-foot stainless steel cross. The museum on the grounds displays archaeological finds, including historic items from the early settlement period.

The mission was founded in 1565 when Pedro Menéndez de Avilés arrived with settlers and established St. Augustine as the first European settlement in North America. This founding marked the beginning of European presence in what is now the United States.

The mission houses a shrine dedicated to Mary, recognized as the first of its kind in the United States. Visitors can experience this place of spiritual devotion set within the grounds and understand its importance to the early Catholic community.

The grounds are easily navigable on foot and invite walking through the open spaces and around the religious structures. It is advisable to wear comfortable shoes and allow time to explore the different areas.

A bronze statue of a priest marks the site of the first Catholic Mass in North America. This memorial captures an important moment in religious history that visitors often overlook.

GPS coordinates: 29.90508,-81.31606

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:42