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Mission San Francisco de la Espada


category : Missions
Established 1731, favorite of many students of Spanish period in Texas, and popular with photographers. The little church building, restored several times, is still in use. Ruins of walls that once surrounded the mission compound; foundations of a granary; baluarte, or fortified tower, can still be seen. Espada Rd. south. Near the mission is an aqueduct over Piedras Creek, part of mission's irrigation system built in 1740s. System includes dam on San Antonio River and acequia (irrigation ditch) still in use after more than 200 years. The aqueduct is a National Historic Landmark.


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Mission San Francisco de la Espada

Established 1731, favorite of many students of Spanish period in Texas, and popular with photographers. The little church building, restored several times, is still in use. Ruins of walls that once surrounded the mission compound; foundations of a granary;

San Antonio, TX Missions

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Set in a limestone quarry, the 200-acre park highlights Texas culture and music. Attractions include such rides as "Superman Krypton Coaster," and Boomerang, a super coaster that throws riders for a loop and then all over again backwards! The Park also has two water attractions:

San Antonio, TX Amusement Parks

San Antonio Zoo

More than 3,500 animals of 750 different species found in one of the premier zoos in North America. This AZA (American Zoo and Aquarium Association) accredited zoo, established in 1914

San Antonio, TX Zoos

River Walk

One level below the downtown streets, the popular Paseo del Rio (River Walk) is edged by hotels, art and gift shops, restaurants and sidewalk cafes, boutiques, and live music. Half-hour scenic riverboat cruises (fee)

San Antonio, TX Historic Sites

Missions of San Antonio

In addition to the Alamo, which is managed by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, four other San Antonio missions form the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. They were established by Franciscan friars in the early 18th century. A map for the "Mission Trail" driving route (

San Antonio, TX Missions

Things to do Missions near San Antonio, TX

Mission San Francisco de la Espada

Established 1731, favorite of many students of Spanish period in Texas, and popular with photographers. The little church bui...

The Alamo

The most famous spot in Texas, where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Ann...

Mission San Juan Capistrano

Like both Espada and Concepcion, established 1731. Extensive restoration work has been carried out. Besides charming little c...

Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo

Known as the Queen of Missions, is both a State and National Historic Site. Founded 1720; church built between 1768-82. Entir...

Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisma Concepcion

Established in 1731, more than 20 years under construction. Massive church with twin towers and cupola is oldest unrestored s...