Appliance Repair Tarpon Springs

For a time, sponges – retrieved from Gulf of Mexico depths by intrepid divers in full suits – outstripped citrus products as Florida’s main export. Now, Tarpon Springs history combined with classic Florida beauty make for an offbeat, cultural getaway. Tucked in a quieter corner of the bustling Tampa Bay metro region, this city of about 25,000 spreads a subtle magic that transports visitors to other times, other places.

Just 45 minutes north of St. Petersburg and found along the shore of the Gulf of Mexico, Tarpon Springs was named for the fish found in abundance in nearby waters. But it also is known as the “sponge capital of the world,” and for its 51 miles of waterfront allure.

Tarpon Springs blends the moods of Victorian-era Florida, small-town America and – most of all – the vibrant character of its Greek heritage. Greek immigrants built Tarpon Springs’ signature sponge industry, turning a remote village into what was called “the sponge capital of the world.” For a time sponges, retrieved from Gulf of Mexico depths by intrepid divers in full suits, outstripped citrus products as Florida’s main export.

The Hellenic influence remains strong today. According to census figures, more than one in 10 residents claim Greek descent, giving Tarpon Springs a higher percentage of Greek-Americans than any other American city. More than seven percent report that they speak Greek in their homes. The high school sports teams are nicknamed “Spongers.”

In addition, Tarpon Springs’ charming downtown center is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors to the Historic District can stroll along brick streets while browsing in art galleries, antiques stores, and specialty shops housed in buildings dating from the late 1800s.