Missions Along the San Antonio River

Beginning in the 1500s, exploratory expeditions traveled north from New Spain, today's Mexico, seeking to expand Spain's influence in America. Over the next two centuries, soldiers and priests accompanying these groups established presidios to secure the remote frontier and built missions to spread the Catholic faith. Native inhabitants found refuge from hostile tribes in missionary-led communities and learned the Spanish way of life, including religion and agriculture. Some of the most successful missions were built along the San Antonio River: Mission San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo, was founded in 1718, followed by Mission San José in 1720, and Missions Concepción, San Juan, and Espada in 1731. To the southeast at today's Goliad, Mission Espíritu Santo was established in 1749 and Mission Rosario in 1754. As permanent settlements developed near the missions, Spain's expansionist goals were fulfilled. The missions closed beginning in the 1790s, and their lands and property were distributed to residents. The buildings then fell into disrepair, but renewed interest beginning in the late 1800s led to restoration work that continues today, preserving the San Antonio and Goliad missions as reminders of the Spanish colonial legacy.

San Antonio, Texas · United States