Inside Villa Zorayda Museum: What to See
The Villa Zorayda Museum in St. Augustine was built in 1883 for Franklin W. Smith, a wealthy merchant and architect. The museum is best known for its Moorish Revival architecture, featuring horseshow arches, a central courtyard, and elaborate ornamental design. Mr. Smith was inspired by his travels to Spain and modeled his winter home after the Alhambra.
I nearly missed Villa Zorayda because I was so focused on seeing the Lightner Museum and didn’t notice the building at first. It is just a short two minute walk from the Lightner Museum.
If you’re a history buff, someone who loves architecture or just looking for a place to explore on a rainy day you may enjoy a visit to this museum. Here’s what to know to plan your trip, from tickets and parking to the exhibits worth prioritizing and a few tips most visitors miss.
Villa Zorayda Museum
Zorayda Museum At A Glance:
What You’ll See
Six rooms are included on the audio tour. The home is three levels, however you can access the first and second floor only. There is a narrow staircase that leads you to the second floor.
The six rooms include: The Prayer Room, Court of Lions, The Justice Room, The Harem Room, the Egyptian Room (Sultan’s Den), and the Master Bedroom Suite. You’ll also see the Tower Alcove with stairs leading to the third floor, however you cannot visit the third floor.
Court of Lions (First Floor)
The main courtyard or Court of Lions is a two-story open air room. It’s hard to photograph from the main floor, so if you want to a shot that includes the room and the stained glass it is easier taken from the second floor balcony. My husband and I visited in late afternoon. Due to the time of day the courtyard had beautiful rainbows coming through the stained glass windows.
You’ll see Moorish details like horseshoe arches and lots of stained glass.
Ornate furniture including a charcoal heater, Moorish brass lights and an Egyptian gaming table.
Prayer Room (first floor)
The Prayer Room, was Mr. Smith’s office. It is filled with heavy ornate furniture, detailed ceilings and ancient artifacts. The first thing I noticed in the house was the detail. Even down to the doorknobs.
If you look no two windows are the same in the whole house. It is quite fascinating. They are all different shapes. Local lore says Mr. Smith was superstitious and believed the differing windows confused the spirits.
Dining Room (Hall of Justice) First floor
Interestingly, in the early 19020’s this space was a casino and speakeasy. Some highlights in this long room are the 14th century ancient Moorish floor tiles that were plastered and framed by Mr. Smith. There are intricate Italian Renaissance style furniture pieces. Even the arms of the chairs are detailed carvings of cherubs and cats.
Balcony Area
Even the Hallways are ornately decorated
Harem Room (Second floor)
My favorite space in the house is the upstairs Harem Room. Right before the porch area there is a space with a harem swing and then you’ll walk into the much brighter Harem Room. I love the blues and how much light comes into the space. There wasn’t a harem here, it is just named this due to the window. The window is designed so that people can view out, but they can’t view in.
There are Persian rugs on the wall and many artifacts in this room. I look at the room and just think how it is a perfect spot for plants.
Egyptian Room (Sultan’s Den) Second Floor
On the second floor, this is the one room you cannot take photos in. Don’t miss it though. It has the oldest and most unique artifact in the home – a 2,400 year old Sacred Cat Rug. This Egyptian rug is woven entirely by using the hair from cats that lived along the Nile River. It is thought to be the oldest rug in the world. In addition there are many other artifacts in this room. Check it out when you visit.
Tower Alcove (Second Floor)
An ornate and colorful pink, blue and cream color nook on the second floor. This alcove leads to the third story bedroom called The Tower of the Princess. You are not able to go to this level in the house.
How Much Time Do You Need?
The audio tour is about an hour, however you may want a little more time to explore the house or take photos. I would allow an 1 to 1.5 hours to visit.
When to Visit Zorayda
The audio tour is entirely inside, so it is a great way to spend a rainy day. However, a nice sunny day is going to give you amazing light with all of the unique and stained glass windows.
Zorayda Practical Information
The tour is self-guided audio. It is really helpful if you bring your own headphones or wired earbuds otherwise you’re just holding the audio guide to your ear during your visit.
I love old houses and all the architectural details that went into building them. If you love historical houses Villa Zorayda is worth visiting.
Planning your St. Augustine trip?
See my St. Augustine things to do page for more places to add to your trip
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St. Augustine Guided Tours
For more information visit the official website at Villa Zorayda
Adventurer At Heart
Amber is the writer behind Adventurer At Heart, sharing practical travel advice based on more than 25 years of exploring Arizona and traveling beyond it. She looks for places with a story, from desert trails and historic sites to scenic drives and towns worth your limited vacation time. When she’s not traveling, she’s gardening.
