Jungle Prada is a historic site located in St. Petersburg, Florida. The name Jungle Prada has an interesting history behind it that dates back to the early 16th century.
The Beginnings of Jungle Prada
In 1528, Spanish explorer Panfilo de Narvaez landed on the shores of Florida with his expedition team. He was searching for gold and other riches but instead found himself in a hostile environment with little food and water. Narvaez and his team were forced to leave their ships and attempt to make their way back to Mexico on foot.
The Arrival of Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca
One of the survivors of Narvaez’s expedition was Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca. After living among the indigenous people for several years, he finally made his way back to Mexico in 1536.
However, before leaving Florida, Cabeza de Vaca encountered a Tocobaga tribe village that he named “Tampa”. This village was located near what is now known as Jungle Prada.
Spanish Missionaries and Jungle Prada
In 1567, Spanish missionaries arrived in the Tampa Bay area with the goal of converting the indigenous people to Christianity. They established a mission near Tampa called “San Luis de Tocobaga”.
The missionaries also built a chapel at Jungle Prada, which they called “La Pena”. This chapel was used by the missionaries for religious services and is believed to be the first Christian church built in North America.
The Origin of the Name ‘Jungle Prada’
The name “Jungle Prada” has its roots in both Spanish and Indigenous languages. The word “Jungle” comes from the Spanish word “jungla”, meaning jungle or forest. The word “Prada” comes from the Tocobaga word for “ferry”, as there was a ferry that crossed Boca Ciega Bay near the site.
Jungle Prada Today
Today, Jungle Prada is a popular tourist attraction and historic site. Visitors can explore the grounds, which include an archaeological site where artifacts have been discovered from the Tocobaga tribe. The site also features a replica of the original Spanish chapel, which is used for weddings and other special events.
In conclusion, Jungle Prada has a fascinating history that dates back to the early days of Florida’s discovery by European explorers. The name itself is a blend of Spanish and Indigenous languages and has its roots in the area’s rich cultural heritage.