During the mid 1500s, Spanish explorers investigated most of the Florida Peninsula. Along the southwestern Florida coast, they discovered a large island with two free flowing springs. This became a favorite rest stop where they were able restocked their water supply. Eventually the island became known as La Isla de San Marco.
Today, Marco Island still retains some of this early Spanish influence, evident in this Picture of the Day. These handsome, San Marco Catholic Church bell towers have received inspiration from the old world architecture style.