Originally built as a winter residence in 1883 by Bostonian Franklin W. Smith, this Moorish revival style home is a one-tenth scale reproduction of a portion of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain. Franklin Smith was the innovator of the poured concrete and crushed coquina stone construction that is seen throughout St. Augustine today. He also built the Casa Monica Hotel. Outstanding features of the museum include an extensive art and antique collection, hand pierced brass lamps throughout, Oriental rugs and an ancient Egyptian Rug over 2400 years old!  The Villa has had a colorful past including private home, restaurant and club, speakeasy, and gambling casino. In 1933 it became a museum which it remains to this date. State of the art audio guided tours are included with admission and are offered in English, Spanish & French. Free parking while visiting the museum.