Mission Concepción
Spanish missionaries assimilate Native Americans into Spanish culture and religion (Margaret Melton)
Domingo de Ugartechea, Mexican Colonel during Battle of Concepción
James Bowie, leader of Texians at Concepción (Texas State Preservation Board)
Battle of Concepción battle map (Texas State Library and Archives)
The city of San Antonio had five Catholic missions; all are part of this national park, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Spanish missionaries established these walled communities throughout what was then called “Tejas” to assimilate indigenous people into the Spanish empire’s religion and culture.
The Spanish missions around San Antonio were secularized in the early 1800s – however, Mission Concepción was likely an active parish in 1835 during the Revolution. At the “Battle of Concepción”, Texian revolutionaries defeated Mexican troops.
Many of the missions fell into disrepair, but they remain a beautiful and important part of the regional history and identity.
The missions are open to visitors, and the National Park Service offers free guided tours. An 8-mile hike and bike trail winds along the San Antonio River, connecting the historic Spanish missions, and makes for an excellent family excursion.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Admission: None
- 6701 San Jose Dr., San Antonio, TX
- 210-932-1001
- Visit Website
- National Register of Historic Places, UNESCO World Heritage Site
- All four churches are active parishes, please be respectful of services.
