Steeped in history, we wish the walls of this second Spanish Period residence could only talk and regale us with tales dating back to the early 1800s. The original single-story coquina structure was built 1801-1803 in accordance with the decree of King Philip of Spain who commanded all houses be built right on the street with surrounding walls for defensive purposes. In those days, this home was oriented to Marine St with its back to the Matanzas River. In the mid 1800s a wooden upper story was added, then a 3 or 4-sided wraparound porch appeared and later the house was trimmed with gingerbread. A 2-story wing on the south side from 1913 completed the dwelling you see today. Some 100 years ago, orientation was changed from Marine St to Avenida Menendez which runs along the Intracoastal Waterway with its delightful breeze. Set back from the street, with a supremely private front yard (a rare thing amongst bayfront properties), we invite you to drink in the expansive water view under. the beacon of the lighthouse and admire other architectural gems along the street. Now turn your sights on #172 and imagine lazy days spent on the covered porch overlooking the bay. Pass by the fountain and a sheltered courtyard on the left is just off the kitchen door. A small covered patio leads to the entry door which invites you into the dining room with a large living room behind it. Generous spaces for daily living and for continuing the tradition of hosting dinner parties. Eat-in kitchen opens to patio and also to Marine St entry. Under the stair 1/2 bath is nicely tucked away. Upstairs, the "landing" is a great office space if you can stop looking out the windows. Bedrooms flank family room where a fireplace waits for cool evenings and Juliet balcony lets you look up and down Marine St. Primary bedroom is on the south end and has private access to the full bathroom which also opens to the common area. 2nd bedroom is on the north side. Step on the front porch, pick a comfortable chair and prepare to be delighted. The roof overhang provides an extra measure of privacy so you can enjoy people-watching and the boats going along without being noticed by passersby who inevitably stop to admire the house and garden. Life in the Historic District is a gift. No short-term rentals means you get to know your neighbors who will fetch your paper and feed your cat when you're out of town. 2 blocks along the esplanade delivers you to the center of our beloved city. Welcome...