Mallory Square was once Key West's most important deep water harbor. Today, the square is a gathering place for tourists, art exhibitors and street performers, and a ritualistic daily sunset celebration.
   Once part of a chain of remote south Florida islands, the area relied on the sea for all their imports and exports. The port saw trade ships from New York, Texas and the nearby island of Cuba. Today, Mallory Square is a stop-off port for cruise ships headed to Caribbean and Mexican resorts. The Oldest House Museum and the old ticket office for the Mallory Steamship Company offers a look into the island's unique past. The annual Key West Home Tours, led by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, features charming homes and gardens which reflect the distinctive tastes of their owners.
   Here at Mallory Square crowds begin to gather about two hours before sundown to enjoy the entertainment. Street performers, chickens, visitors and the setting sun are all a part of the unique Key West atmosphere.

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