The Presidio preserves an astonishingly complex cultural and natural heritage within its 1,480 acres just south of the Golden Gate. As a U.S. Army post, the Presidio protected commerce and trade, and played a logistical role in every major U.S. military conflict from 1848 until closure. World and national events – from military campaigns to the rise of aviation, from World Fairs to natural disasters – left their mark here. Since 1994, the Presidio has been part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. Today, visitors enjoy the history and beauty of more than 500 historic buildings, a collection of coastal defense fortifications, a national cemetery, an historic airfield, a saltwater marsh, forests, beaches, native plant habitats, coastal bluffs, miles of hiking and biking trails, and spectacular vistas. Presidio Trust Special Events Office: (415) 561-5444; email: events@presidiotrust.gov