When you say “Miami” most people will think of beach, clubs and hotels. There is a huge misconception of what Miami is really about and what it has to offer. Trust me, it is more than just a Beach/Night Paradise! Let’s take for instance this gorgeous ancient Monastery that most people don’t even know about.
The Ancient Spanish Monastery is a medieval monastery which was built in Sacramenia, Spain during 12th century (1133 AD to be exact). The original name was “Monastery of Our Lady, Queen of the Angels” but it was renamed later on after Bernard of Clairvaux.
It was only on the 20th century that it was purchased and dismantled stone by stone by William Randolph Hearst. It was then shipped (packed in more than 11,000 wooden crates) to New York and ended up being reassembled in Miami Beach.
I find it simply astonishing how they were able to transport this gorgeous medieval monument overseas without changing its history and beautiful architecture. And trust me it is not easy to find this kind of historical monuments in the US.
In the current days this monastery is mainly an attraction for tourists and pilgrims but also used by many to celebrate their weddings and receptions. This is definitely a must see if you visit Miami!