How on earth could a Spanish monastery built during the 12th century end up becoming one of the oldest attractions in modern-day Florida? It’s an unusual story that will surely leave you intrigued. The original monastery cloister was constructed in Spain, but was disassembled and shipped to the United States in the 20th century, where it has remained as an Episcopal church and tourist attraction ever since. Why the move? The monastery was purchased by an American Reverend William Hearst, who wished the entire building to be transported to his home country. After a complicated packing and shipping process and the death of Hearst himself, the pieces of the church were eventually purchased and brought to Miami, where they were painstakingly put together again. Today, you can still see the lines from each individual piece of worn stone, making the church look a little like a giant jigsaw puzzle. Other elements and decorative pieces from various Spanish buildings have also been added to the original structure, such as the impressive coat-of-arms in the cloister. Overall, the entire church is a pleasing relief from the high-powered glamour of the city of Miami and will definitely refresh your soul.