San Antonio boasts numerous historical locations that showcase its vibrant past. Notable among these landmarks are The Alamo, which commemorates those who defended Texas independence during a battle fought at The Alamo in 1836.
San Fernando Cathedral stands out as a top attraction with its breathtaking structure and adobe walls, while Spanish Governor’s Palace deserves special mention due to its three-foot thick stone walls and diverse collection of antique furniture.
The Alamo
The Alamo is one of Texas’s most revered historical landmarks, serving as an important military garrison during and after Mexico’s War of Independence from Spain in 1820s. Initially called Mision San Antonio de Valero, its main use was as a military barracks during and after that conflict.
The Alamo is widely recognized for the legendary battle that took place there early in 1836, between Anglo-Texan settlers and Mexico’s dictator Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna’s forces. They withstood 13 days of attack before being overcome.
Losing the Alamo galvanized the rest of Texas against Santa Anna and his Mexican government. A few months later, Sam Houston led his Texian army to victory at Battle of San Jacinto – ending their revolution and sealing Texas independence from Mexico forevermore. Today, its remains remain a symbol of Texas heroism.
The San Fernando Cathedral
At its official name, San Fernando Cathedral stands on San Antonio’s Main Plaza as “The Church of Nuestra Senora de la Candelabra y Guadelupe.” However, many refer to it simply as San Fernando Cathedral.
This impressive church was constructed by families from the Canary Islands in 1731, making it one of the oldest church buildings in Texas. In 1975 it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, Pope John Paul II made his historic visit in 1987 – becoming only person ever before to do so!
The cathedral played an essential part in the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. General Santa Anna raised a flag of no quarter at its top to signal to those inside that they would not escape alive. Many visitors to the cathedral have reported witnessing ghostly sightings at nighttime including dark shadows that come and go seemingly at will; many have suggested these may be spirits from its founding monks centuries earlier.
The Tower of the Americas
The Tower of the Americas stands 750 feet tall and remains as one of the mainstays from HemisFair ’68 World’s Fair, housing both an observation deck and revolving restaurant. A popular visitor destination, its presence can be found all along downtown Houston’s skyline and is an essential landmark.
Tower of the Americas stands proud in downtown San Antonio and provides stunning views of its vibrant cityscape, making it a must-visit for architecture, history, and urban life enthusiasts.
Attractions at Tower of the Americas include New Year’s Eve celebrations and Fourth of July fireworks displays; it also provides a memorable backdrop for viewing Riverwalk strolls showcasing restaurants, shops and attractions along this picturesque waterway. The best time of year to visit would be June through August when temperatures are ideal and temperatures comfortable enough for walking along its scenic routes.
The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is Texas’s sole UNESCO World Heritage site, situated along a winding river and protecting four of five frontier missions built here to spread Catholicism by Spanish friars. They included Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion, Espada and Capistrano that provided easy access to water, timber and food sources.
As part of their lives as missionaries, Native peoples gave up many aspects of traditional lives for one governed by the Spanish. These changes left an indelible mark on South Texas culture; today, both native and Spanish cultures coexist within modern-day San Antonio.
Missions Valero (the Alamo), Espada and San Jose’s church have been designated National Historic Landmarks or Sites respectively, while ongoing restoration efforts at Mission Park include repairs of post-Colonial Tufa House structures as well as masonry apprentice work at other iconic mission structures.
