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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.


Hours: Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day

Come visit us in San Antonio, Texas

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Spanish Governor's Palace

In 1772, San Antonio became seat of Spanish government in Texas, headquartered at 10-room Spanish Governor's Palace on Military Plaza. It was to this adobe-walled structure that Moses Austin came in 1820

San Antonio, TX Structural Landmarks

Fort Sam Houston

Established in 1845 and moved to its present location in 1876, this installation has long been one of the Army'

San Antonio, TX Forts

Botanical Garden

33 acres of display gardens, fountains, and natural areas (Major walkways wheelchair accessible). Included is the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, a 90,000-square-foot complex of below-ground houses that use the earth'

San Antonio, TX Botanical Gardens

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

Military Bases

Since San Antonio's founding as a presidio more than two centuries ago, the military has been an integral part of the city. Most military installations require a visitor's pass, which usually may be obtained at the gate. For security reasons, some areas are restricted.

San Antonio, TX Military Bases

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...

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...

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 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...