| Constructed during the early years of the 18th century, the San Antonio Missions are nationally designated historical structures that draw nearly 1.5 million visitors from around the world each year (including 500,000 students participating in school-related field trips). The San Antonio Missions are the third most frequented tourist attraction in San Antonio (after the Alamo and the Riverwalk), and ninth in the state of Texas. All four missions are stunning examples of Spanish Colonial architecture; however, each mission has its own rich history and unique characteristics. More than just historic churches and tourist attractions, however, the mission churches and surrounding structures tell the story of an indigenous people and their evolving culture. The missions comprised San Antonio's first skyline and were the source and inspiration for much of the industry and rich culture. |
