Place

Crumbling Coquina

Against a beige background of the tiny shells that make up the coquina stone are 2 columns of white text: on the left, English; on the right, Spanish.  Crumbing Coquina. Fort Matanzas was built using coquina, a local limestone. This porous limestone is made from millions of seashells pressed together for thousands of years. The Spanish coated the fort walls with plaster made from oyster shells to help waterproof the structure.  You can help us preserve the fort for generations to come: touch this sample of coquina instead of the historic walls.  End of Text  In the center of the panel, between the 2 columns of text, a long rectangular inset container with touchable material. On the top half, light tan, coquina; on the lower half, greyish-white plaster.  Beyond the panel is a shrub and tree covered ancient sand dune. To the left, a sidewalk leading to the ferry dock, beyond that another sidewalk leading back to the visitor center. To the left and behind is the visitor center.  [End of Message]

Quick Facts

Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits, Tactile Exhibit, Wheelchair Accessible

Fort Matanzas was built using coquina, a local limestone. This porous limestone is made from millions of seashells pressed together for thousands of years. The Spanish coated the fort walls with plaster made from oyster shells to help waterproof the structure.

You can help us preserve the fort for generations to come: touch this sample of coquina instead of the historic walls.

Fort Matanzas National Monument

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Last updated: February 20, 2021