Sacred Lands, Fla. -- Nestled on the shore of Boca Ciega Bay is a place to learn, to teach and to grow.  It is also a place to remember our past, the past of our state and of its native people.  Sacred Lands is dedicated to preservation, because its mission is to keep Florida's history alive for future generations.

Sacred Lands is located on the remains of an ancient Tocobaga Indian village.  The midden mound is well preserved, and an artist's studio has been built on the flattened plaza where the chief's house once stood.

Sacred Lands is available to host private events and ceremonies.  This land that is so beautiful and historically significant makes a wonderful place to celebrate a sacred bond between two people.  This wedding, which took place in 2010, was a joyous event for everyone!

Tours are offered every Sunday at 5 p.m.  The tour, which is conducted by Erik Anderson, explores the lives of the Tocobaga people, and provides detailed information about Florida's native flora and fauna.  Guests also get to sample the black drink, a traditional tea brewed by the Tocobaga using local plants.

An archaeological dig, conducted in the mid '90s by the Florida Central Gulf Coast Archaeological Society (CGAS), turned up proof of ancient European presence on the land.  Spanish artifacts found on site include: olive jars, musket balls and glass beads.

Tocobaga relics found at Sacred Lands are on display to the public in the Greenhouse Museum.  These artifacts include: pottery, shell tools, and native jewelry.  T-shirts and books by local authors are also on sale in the museum.

Sacred Lands hosts many teachers and spiritual leaders who seek a quiet place to practice their traditional rituals.  Photographed is an Inipi, a type of sweat lodge commonly associated with plains Indians such as the Lakota people.  Use of the land for spiritual practices is available upon request.