Jacksonville, Fla. – Archaeologists from the Florida Museum of Natural History at the University of Florida are conducting an excavation on the grounds of Mission Nombre de Dios in St. Augustine.

Based on archaeological discoveries, historical documents and other evidence, the site is believed to be the foundation of a church built by Governor Pablo de Hita y Salazar in 1677, to serve Mission Nombre de Dios and the Shrine of Nuestra Señora de la Leche. Governor de Hita was a Spanish soldier and the governor of Florida from 1674-1680.

To date, the excavations have uncovered the exterior wall foundations of the church, as well as interior partition walls. Artifacts recovered include architectural items such as coquina, tabby, mortar and nails, as well as Native American and Spanish pottery dating from the late 1600s to the early 1700s.

The unexpected findings, specifically the number of interior walls and apparent stages of construction, have excited even archaeologists with years of excavating experience in St. Augustine, and researchers plan to continue excavation efforts through early June.

The public is welcome to view the excavations while underway, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday, weather permitting. For more information, call Eric Johnson, director of Mission Nombre de Dios of the Diocese of St. Augustine at (904) 824-2809.