The Villa Zorayda was built in 1883 as the winter residence of Franklin W. Smith utilizing his method of construction, poured concrete and crushed coquina shell. Smith replicated architectural details of the Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain for his residence. The Villa Zorayda set a precedence for architecture in St. Augustine and began the Moorish Spanish Revival style of architecture that is seen throughout the city today. Today, the Museum showcases its impressive art and antique collection of its previous owners from places around the world as well as the remarkable history of the building. On the National Register of Historic Places.