San Antonio holds some of the oldest and most architecturally significant churches in Texas, where Spanish Colonial missions stand alongside 19th- and early-20th-century parishes shaped by diverse immigrant communities.
any are still active centers of worship, while also serving as important landmarks that tell the story of the city’s cultural, spiritual, and civic evolution.
The Spanish Colonial Missions (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
San Antonio’s Spanish Colonial missions, built in the 18th century by Franciscan friars, are among the most important historic churches in North America. These walled compounds combined places of worship with living quarters, workshops, and farmland, serving both as centers for evangelization and as self-sustaining communities for Indigenous peoples.
Today, they form part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving their stone chapels, irrigation systems, and centuries-old traditions for visitors and parishioners alike.
Mission San José
6701 San José Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214
Built between 1768 and 1775, Mission San José earned the title “Queen of the Missions” for its size, artistry, and preservation. The elaborate Rose Window, considered one of the finest examples of Spanish Colonial ornamentation in North America, is the mission’s most famous feature.
Visitors can explore the restored granary, cloister, and defensive walls, or attend weekend Mass in the active parish. As part of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, it offers daily ranger-led talks and living history demonstrations.
Mission San Francisco de la Espada
10040 Espada Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214
Established in 1690 and relocated to San Antonio in 1731, Mission Espada is the oldest mission site in Texas. Its simple, mission-style chapel is built from native limestone and lime mortar, with a modest bell tower that gives it a distinctive charm.
The mission is also home to the still-functioning Espada Acequia, an 18th-century irrigation system. Mass is celebrated every Sunday, keeping alive nearly 300 years of worship on the site.
Mission Concepción
807 Mission Rd, San Antonio, TX 78210
Completed in 1755, Mission Concepción is the oldest unrestored stone church in the United States. Much of its original design and structure remain intact, including fragments of 18th-century frescoes on the interior walls and ceilings.
The church’s symmetrical twin bell towers and arched entryway are classic Spanish Colonial features. Still an active parish, it hosts Sunday Mass at 10:00 am in both English and Spanish.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
9101 Graf Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214
Founded in 1731, Mission San Juan Capistrano is known for its simple whitewashed façade and rural setting. Historically, the mission operated an extensive farm that supplied food to the region, and its irrigation channels still run nearby. The present church building, completed in 1756, retains a humble beauty that reflects its agricultural heritage.
Mass is held on Sundays at 11:00 am, and visitors can walk the mission grounds or access the nearby Mission Reach hiking and biking trail.
Notable Historic Parishes & Churches
Beyond the missions, San Antonio’s historic parishes tell the story of a growing city shaped by diverse immigrant communities. From Gothic Revival cathedrals in the heart of downtown to Spanish Mission Revival basilicas and early-20th-century Baptist and Methodist landmarks, these churches reflect the evolving faith, artistry, and civic spirit of the city.
Many remain active congregations, welcoming worshipers and visitors for Mass, tours, concerts, and community events throughout the year.
Cathedral of San Fernando
115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
Founded in 1731 by Canary Island settlers, the Cathedral of San Fernando is the oldest continuously operating religious community in Texas. Its original Spanish Colonial walls still form the sanctuary’s core, while a Gothic Revival façade, added in the 1870s, gives the cathedral its distinctive twin towers.
Inside, stained glass from France and carved wooden altars frame the sanctuary, which hosts Masses in both English and Spanish daily. The cathedral is also known for its evening light show, “San Antonio | The Saga,” which projects the city’s history onto the façade.
Little Flower Basilica (Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower)
1715 N Zarzamora St, San Antonio, TX 78201
Built in 1931 in the Spanish Mission Revival style, the Little Flower Basilica honors St. Thérèse of Lisieux, also known as “The Little Flower.” Its stucco walls, curved bell towers, and ornate rose window embody the romanticized mission style popular in early-20th-century Texas.
Inside, the basilica features hand-painted murals, carved wooden confessionals, and a relic of St. Thérèse. Elevated to basilica status in 1998, it remains a place of pilgrimage, with daily Masses and special devotions to the saint.
St. Joseph Catholic Church
623 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Constructed between 1868 and 1876 for the city’s German Catholic community, St. Joseph’s is a striking Gothic Revival landmark in the heart of downtown.
In 1944, developers built the Shops at Rivercenter mall around the church after parishioners refused to sell their land, giving rise to its nickname, “St. Joseph’s Downtown.” Inside, Munich-made stained glass and a high vaulted ceiling create a vivid, Old World atmosphere. The church holds daily Mass and welcomes visitors throughout the week.
Prospect Hill Missionary Baptist Church
1601 Buena Vista St, San Antonio, TX 78207
Founded in the early 20th century, Prospect Hill Missionary Baptist Church is an important part of San Antonio’s African-American religious history. Its brick façade, arched stained-glass windows, and corner bell tower reflect early-20th-century ecclesiastical architecture.
The church continues to serve as a hub for worship, community outreach, and civic engagement in the city’s West Side.
Travis Park United Methodist Church
230 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205
One of the oldest Protestant congregations in San Antonio, Travis Park United Methodist Church began in 1846 and built its current Gothic Revival sanctuary in 1883. The exterior features pointed arches, buttresses, and a prominent steeple, while inside, tall stained-glass windows fill the space with colored light.
Known for its active social justice ministry, the church operates a large community feeding program and frequently opens its doors for concerts and civic events.
Visiting Tips
- Plan around worship schedules – Many churches welcome visitors before and after services, but some close during Mass or other liturgies.
- Start with the missions – The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park offers free parking, visitor centers, and guided tours at Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission Espada, and Mission San Juan.
- Dress modestly – These are active houses of worship; modest attire is appreciated during services or tours.
- Use public transit or Mission Reach trails – The missions are connected by an 8-mile stretch of hiking/biking trails along the San Antonio River.
- Look for special events – Light shows at the Cathedral of San Fernando, Polka Masses, concerts, and feast-day celebrations offer unique experiences.
Photography etiquette – Always ask before photographing interiors, especially during religious services.
