Villa Zorayda Museum

This winter home set an architectural precedent both in style and form and went on to infuence the shape of St Augustine's built environment that we see today. On the National Register of Historic Places, Villa Zorayda was built in 1883 as the winter residence of Franklin Smith, utilizing his innovative method of construction known as, poured concrete and crushed coquina shell. This method of construction and its Moorish Revival style of architecture went on to set a precedence in St Augustine and helped shape the Gilded Age architecture many visitors come to St Augustine to see. As an architect and merchant, Smith traveled the world extensively studying ancient architecture in Europe and the Middle East. Ultimately, Smith fell in love with the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain, and decided to design his winter home in the Moorish Revival style of architecture after the Alhambra. In the early 1900s, the Zorayda was leased out to the Zorayda Club, an invite-only social club who provided dining, dancing and socializing to the most prominent visitors and residence. Mussallem, an authority on Oriental rugs, fine arts and Egyptian artifacts. Mussallem continued to lease the property to the Zorayda Club. In 1922, during the prohibition, the Zorayda Club transitioned use of the property to pivot with the constraints of the time, and became one of the most fashionable places for casino gambling and served as a speakeasy. Ultimately, In 1933, Abraham Mussallem and his wife Olga Mussallem converted the home to a museum, showcasing the priceless artifacts and antique collections of both Franklin Smith and A.S. Mussallem, which are still on display today. The 45 minute audio guided tour (available in English, Spanish, and French) gives an in-depth look at the historical significance of the building to the City of St. Augustine, the magnificent architecture, and descriptions of the many exquisite artifacts and antiquities, which are original to the home. During the Holiday Season, the museum opens its doors during the evenings. Our Christmas Candlelight Tours are available on select evenings. Villa Zorayda, is also available for as a venue rental for various events, wedding services and private parties. Please visit www.villazorayda.com for more information about our services or call 904-829-9887 with any questions.