Our Mission: The mission of the Santa Elena Foundation is the discovery, preservation, and promotion of the “Lost Century” of European colonization through the international story of Santa Elena, the 16th Century la Florida settlement that became the colonial Spanish capital in present-day United States - located on Parris Island, South Carolina. Our Vision: The strategic vision for the Santa Elena Foundation is to expand the knowledge of Santa Elena and other 16th Century European settlements in the area of the Port Royal Sound, South Carolina. The vision of the Santa Elena Foundation will be achieved via continual archeological research and through programs at a cultural interpretive center. An interim center will be opened to commemorate the 450th anniversary in 2016 of European colonization near the natural harbors of the Port Royal Sound. A permanent cultural interpretive center is to follow. The archeological site and cultural interpretive center aim for international recognition, with broad historical and cultural appeal, while making a sustained and positive contribution to the local economy.