Fountain of Youth
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The Fountain of Youth is a legendary spring that reputedly renders anyone who drinks of its waters permanently young. Florida is generally said to be its location, and stories of the fountain are some of the most persistant myths associated with the state.
Tales of such waters date to at least the time of the Alexander Romance, and were popular right up to the European Age of Exploration.
Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de Leon was reportedly searching for the Fountain of Youth when he traveled to present-day Florida in 1513.
It was rumored that Ponce de Leon was on his way to the island of Bimini, which was the supposed location of the Fountain of Youth. Ponce de Leon landed just north of the current location of the St. Augustine historical district, and was directed by the natives to a place which they called "beemeenee".
This landing site is now part of "The Fountain of Youth National Archaeological Park". The park is open to guests year round.
External links
- "Fountain of Youth - St. Augustine, Florida" (http://www.fountainofyouthflorida.com/History/index.htm)