San Antonio is an invaluable heritage tourism gem. Aside from the Alamo, there are dozens of incredible historical sites worth seeing here in this city.
The Spanish Governor’s Palace is an absolute must. Boasting three-foot thick walls and an eclectic collection of historic artifacts, this palace is truly remarkable.
Spanish Governor’s Palace
The Spanish Governor’s Palace in downtown San Antonio stands as a remnant of Spain’s colonial period in Texas. Constructed during this era, this early 1700s building served as home and work offices for Presidio captains who worked at its presidio.
Over the years, this historic property has also served as a schoolhouse, produce market and even saloon known as The Hole-in-the-Wall. However, its fate was saved from demolition when teacher and preservationist Adina Emilia De Zavala petitioned for its acquisition and renovation by the city government.
Building is now designated as a National Historic Landmark and stands as a rare example of 18th-century Spanish Colonial architecture still standing in Texas. Reports claim it to be haunted by an unidentified female spirit – her apparition has been seen peeking out windows or walking near what was believed to be called the Tree of Sorrows during colonial era when at least 35 criminals were executed there.
Casa Navarro
Many historical sites across America hold special meaning for America’s past: Philadelphia’s Independence Hall was where both the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed; Boston’s Old State House served as the site of the Boston Massacre; Washington D.C.’s National Mall hosted Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech; Casa Navarro in San Antonio is another significant site that helps tell its own unique tale;
This one-story limestone and adobe house serves as an outstanding example of early Texas domestic architecture. Visitors can read copies of Navarro’s writing as they tour its two-story square store/office building as well as its detached adobe/caliche block kitchen.
Navarro was a rancher, merchant, political leader and advocate for Tejano rights during a period of profound transformation. His homestead became an anchor point in history – an honor bestowed upon historic sites which showcase and interpret American heritage in an exceptional fashion. Today it stands as an honorable National Historic Landmark complex.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower
National Shrine of the Little Flower in Oakland County captivates both visitors and passerby with its towering tower and Art Deco style, creating an eye-catching structure near Woodward and 12 Mile roads in Oakland County. But on Saturday, Pope Francis granted it an extra distinction: only 82 churches across America can hold this honor that recognizes their particular importance to Catholic liturgical life as well as having an especially close relationship with him.
The shrine was established by the Discalced Carmelite Friars in 1926 as a treasury of master craftsmanship, religious art and relics dedicated to St. Therese of Lisieux. A central feature is a large painting depicting Therese made by Celine Martin (another nun) in 1927 with peacock feathers representing immortality; other highlights include statues and Stations of the Cross designed by Corrado Parducci (who created work for Blessed Sacrament Cathedral as well as several Detroit office buildings) who created her work; Corrado designed this church’s Stations of the Cross and Adoration chapel design by Corrado himself (he also worked on projects by designing work at Blessed Sacrament Cathedral).
King William Historic District
King William is an alluring little ghetto of Victorian-era homes that charms visitors to San Antonio. Once its most elegant neighborhood, this area was known as Sauerkraut Bend during its construction heyday and boasted grand mansions built by wealthy Germans along its 25 blocks south of Downtown.
These houses exhibit a charming combination of architectural styles spanning Greek Revival to Victorian Era and Italianate; no doubt why Thrillist named this district the 11th prettiest historic neighborhood in America! It is easy to see why.
Villa Finale stands as an illuminating example of how preservation leads to revitalization in this neighborhood. One such house was saved by local preservationist Walter Mathis as an expression of his passion; today, it serves as a museum that educates visitors about its past while also symbolizing San Antonio’s successful cultural amalgamation.
