Goliad, Texas

Presidio La Bahia

As conquistadors of centuries ago explored new lands for "God, Gold and Glory," the Church played an integral part in colonization and dominion over vast New World empires. Missions were often first permanent Spanish settlement in new areas. To protect mission endeavors, a presidio (fort)

Visitor Center

Grave of Col. James W. Fannin Jr. and Men

Monument marks grave of Colonel Fannin and 342 men who had surrendered to Mexican forces during the Texas Revolution, and were massacred at the order of General Santa Anna on Palm Sunday morning, March 27, 1836. Two miles south of Goliad off U.S. 183, a few hundred yards from Presidio La Bahia.

Market House Museum

Quaint structure with cupola on the courthouse square. First public use on Aug. 30, 1853; in 1886, building became a firehouse with meeting hall. Local volunteer fire department used the building until 1964 and restored for use as museum in 1967

Goliad State Park

184-acre park features reconstructed, refurnished replica Mission Nuestra Senora del Espritu Santo de Ziga, generally called Mission Espritu Santo. Excellent interpretive displays, plus camping and picnicking area, rest rooms and river fishing spots. Mission established 1749