The four mission churches of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park are Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. Though one can drive (and even bike) from one to the next in one day, you might be rushing by the time you get to the last mission in your itinerary. The park’s operating hours are from 9 AM to 5 PM. If you decide to visit them, plan for a leisurely two-day visit for better enjoyment. These missions are also the only UNESCO World Heritage sites in Texas.
According to the National Park Service, this mission was founded in 1716 in eastern Texas and relocated to the present site in 1731. The whole mission name is Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción de Acuña. It is one of the oldest unrestored stone churches in America.
“If you look closely at these faded walls, you will find remnants of their colorful past. Colorful geometric designs covered the church inside and out. The exterior frescos have long since faded or worn away but frescos are still visible inside the buildings.” [National Park Service]
The most famous fresco, “Eye of God,” is still visible on the library’s ceiling.
Visitors today can explore the the store room, the porteria, the library, and the refectory (dining hall). The church is also open to the public.
That is the story behind the shots. If you liked these photos, you might also be interested in other posts featuring Churches, Mission Concepción, National Historic Parks, San Antonio, San Antonio NHP, Texas, and UNESCO World Heritage. Until the next time, keep clicking and capturing the beauty your eyes find.
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Anne Sandler
Beautiful and historic Egidio. I’m looking forward to seeing the others.
Egidio Leitao
Thank you, Anne. I’ll work on posting entries for the others.
Rebecca Cuningham
We love the missions and San Antonio! Do they still have mariachi masses? Those are fun to attend.
Egidio Leitao
We do, too. Mission San José has a mariachi choir on Sunday masses. Thanks for writing.
Rebecca Cuningham
Yes, Evan and I attended it in the 1990s. So uplifting.
Tra Italia e Finlandia
Grazie per averci fatto conoscere questo sito. L’occhio di Dio è meraviglioso!
Egidio Leitao
Grazie per aver scritto. Scriverò delle altre missioni in post diversi.
Amy
Thank you for the tour through your beautiful photos!
Egidio Leitao
You’re welcome, Amy. I’m glad you came along. Thank you.
Marie
Fascinating. The contrast between the exterior and the interior is striking. Are any of them still active churches? Love the last shot of the stairwell.
Egidio Leitao
Marie, all are active and hold masses. Thank you for your feedback.