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San Antonio Missions
In the 18th century, the Spanish church established five Catholic missions along the San Antonio River, primarily to extend its dominion northward from Mexico, but also to convert the native population. What remains of the largest concentration of missions in North America provides an interesting look into Texas’ history.
The Alamo
The first mission established in San Antonio, the Alamo (San Antonio de Valero) served as a way station between east Texas and Mexico. Already 100 years old when it fell in the notorious Battle of the Alamo, you’ll find it in the heart of the city. View the often-photographed church façade, as well as relics in the Long Barrack Museum.
Mission San José
Located just south of the Alamo, this “Queen of the Missions” represented a social and cultural center. Its 300 residents sustained themselves by raising livestock and tending to vast fields. The mission had its own gristmill and granary, which have been restored.
At the church, look for flying buttresses, carvings, quatrefoil patterns, polychromatic plaster and the famed “Rose Window,” a superb example of Spanish Colonial ornamentation. Explore the stairway that leads to the belfry and choir loft; all 25 risers were hand-hewn form a single log and assembled without the use of nails or pegs.
Arguably the most beautiful mission church, Concepción looks much like it did in 1731 when it hosted many religious ceremonies. The structure is, in fact, the oldest un-restored church in America. While its exterior paintings have faded, guests can view conserved interior remnants of wall and ceiling paintings.
Mission San Juan
The San Juan’s fertile farmlands allowed for a self-sustainable 
Mission Espada
This mission contains the best-preserved segment of the acequia (irrigation system) that was used to bring water to the fields. Today, part of the acequia operates the Espada aqueduct and dam. Also noteworthy are an unusual door and stone archway. All five missions are accessible via the six-mile Hike and Bike trail. When visiting, keep in mind that the San Jose is an active parish, and mass may be in session.
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