Exploring Historic Seville Square in Pensacola, FL

Seville Square in Pensacola, FL, offers a unique opportunity to explore an area steeped in history. Located in the city’s heart, it is one of Pensacola’s most iconic and treasured landmarks. Its rich past has been integral to Pensacola’s history for centuries, and its importance continues today. Seville Square began as the Native American fishing village of Nokoseo and was annexed into Pensacola in 1763. In this period of Spanish occupation and rule, the square had a four-sided colonnade, referred to as ‘The Square,’ and was the first public square in Pensacola. It was utilized as a central location for public events and presentations. The Spanish decided to use the name ‘Seville Square’ about the ancient city of Seville, Spain, which shares historical ties to Pensacola’s Spanish roots. When Pensacola became part of the United States, the square was mainly used as a military post and parade ground until the 1960s, when it was transformed into the lush garden park that today visitors can explore. Learn more here.

The square is a popular destination for those seeking relaxation, recreation, and education. It is home to dozens of trees, flowers, carefully placed benches, and many other historical monuments. The park’s centerpiece is the fountain, initially built in 1891 as a donation to the city by Christopher and Margaret Haden Blackwell. The fountain was initially commissioned in England and shipped to Pensacola, where it was finished with iconic cast iron embellishments. The statues of Andrew Jackson and William Charles Cole Claiborne, both significant figures in the city’s history, are placed amongst the park’s picturesque arboretum and historical markers. Andrew Jackson was the seventh president of the United States and a significant point of pride for Pensacola as he was the first United States president born in the south. Claiborne was the state’s first governor, appointed by President Madison in 1817. Learn more about Exploring Historic Seville Square in Pensacola, FL.