San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park consists of four Spanish colonial missions in SA Texas. These missions were built by Catholic missionaries of the Franciscan order between the years of 1716 and 1793. They were designed to convert local Native Americans to Christianity and to help them become self-sufficient Spanish citizens. Today, the park is a popular tourist destination, as it offers a glimpse into what life was like for early settlers in Texas.

The Origins of the Missions
The first mission, Mission San Antonio de Valero (better known as the Alamo), was founded in 1718. It was named for St. Anthony of Padua, the patron saint of explorers. The mission was moved to its current location in 1724, when construction began on a new complex that included a church, living quarters for the missionaries, and workshops. By 1733, there were over 100 residents living at the mission.

The second mission, Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo, was founded in 1720. It was named for St. Joseph and St. Michael the Archangel. The mission was originally located near present-day Downtown San Antonio but was moved to its current location in 1731 due to flooding. The new complex included a church, granary, blacksmith shop, and Acequia Madre, an irrigation ditch that provided water for the mission’s farms. By 1756, there were over 300 residents living at the mission.

Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción de Acuña was founded in 1716 and was named for the Immaculate Conception of Mary. It is the oldest unrestored stone church in Texas and is considered to be one of the best examples of Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States. The mission was moved to its current location in 1731 due to flooding and construction on a new complex began shortly thereafter. The complex included a church, convento (living quarters for the missionaries), granary, and workshops. By 1762, there were over 400 residents living at the mission.

The fourth and final mission in the park is Mission San Juan Capistrano which was founded in 1731 and named for Saint John of Capistrano. It is notable for being constructed almost entirely out of stone instead of adobe brick like the other missions. The complex includes a church, granary, dovecote (a place where pigeons were kept), cemetery, and living quarters for both the missionaries and Native American families who resided at the mission. At its peak population in 1756, there were 1,200 residents living at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

Conclusion:
The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a great place to learn about early Texan history while also admiring beautiful Spanish Colonial architecture. If you find yourself in San Antonio, be sure to add this park to your list of places to visit!

Another must see site to visit while you are touring the Alamo City is the Japanese Tea Garden!  You’ll definitely want to make time to visit this local hidden gem!