Covento

The grand two-story Convento housed the priest and two friars who lived here and ruled over the mission. Separated from the rest of the compound, the residence reflected the clergy’s high status. The friars and their guests enjoyed imported luxuries on the frontier, including sugar and wine. The ground floor contained the kitchen, dining room, and offices, while the clergy occupied rooms above. Its architecture reflected the Spanish caste system imposed at the time, a social order based on geographic and cultural background that placed Native Americans and Africans in the lowest caste. Franciscan friars wore blue robes and corded belts and vowed poverty, chastity, and obedience.

San Antonio, Texas · United States