South Texas and the Borderlands hold a distinctive place in the story of Texas’s religious heritage. From Spanish Colonial cathedrals to rural Protestant sanctuaries, each church reflects the region’s cultural blend of Mexican, European, and American frontier influences. Many of these houses of worship remain active congregations, continuing their centuries-old mission while welcoming visitors to explore their artistry, history, and spiritual atmosphere.
Immaculate Conception Cathedral — Brownsville
Address: 1218 E Jefferson St, Brownsville, TX 78520
Brownsville’s Immaculate Conception Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic Revival design, built in 1856 under the guidance of Bishop Jean-Marie Odin. Constructed of brick covered in stucco, the church’s pointed-arch windows and slender buttresses recall medieval Europe, while its setting in the Rio Grande Valley places it firmly in the story of the Texas-Mexico borderlands.
Inside, the cathedral is adorned with stained-glass windows depicting Biblical scenes and saints, complemented by intricate wood carvings. As the mother church of the Diocese of Brownsville, it remains a center for Catholic life, with daily Mass and special events that draw worshippers from both sides of the border.
Cathedral of San Agustin — Laredo
Address: 214 San Bernardo Ave, Laredo, TX 78040
The Cathedral of San Agustin, with its striking Romanesque Revival façade, anchors Laredo’s historic district. Established as a parish in 1755 by Spanish settlers, the current stone structure was completed in 1872 under the direction of French architect Pierre Yves Kéralum. Its central bell tower rises over San Agustin Plaza, a symbol of the city’s colonial origins.
The interior’s vaulted ceiling, imported stained glass, and carved wood altar evoke both European craftsmanship and the devotion of generations of Laredo’s Catholic community. Still the seat of the Diocese of Laredo, the cathedral offers daily Mass, bilingual liturgies, and guided tours for those interested in its architectural and cultural legacy.
Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church — Moravia
Address: 111 Moravia St, Moravia, TX 78956
Built in 1912, Ascension of Our Lord Catholic Church stands in the small Czech community of Moravia, its Late Gothic Revival architecture marked by pointed windows and a soaring steeple. Inside, visitors find rich woodwork and traditional statuary, as well as painted details inspired by Old World churches.
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the church reflects the deep faith and communal pride of early 20th-century Czech immigrants. It still hosts Sunday Mass and remains a focal point for local heritage festivals and reunions.
Presbyterian Iglesia Nicea — Victoria
Address: 107 E Juan Linn St, Victoria, TX 77901
Founded by Czech and Mexican Presbyterian families, Iglesia Nicea is a testament to South Texas’s multicultural religious landscape. The modest brick structure, accented with pointed windows and a central entrance tower, embodies early 20th-century Protestant design in the region.
The congregation maintains active worship services and community outreach programs, preserving the church’s role as both a spiritual and cultural gathering place. Its continued use reflects Victoria’s layered history of immigration and faith.
First Presbyterian Church — Van Horn
Address: 200 W 4th St, Van Horn, TX 79855
A frontier landmark in far West Texas, First Presbyterian Church was built in the early 20th century of locally quarried stone. Its simple rectangular plan, arched windows, and modest bell tower speak to the practical craftsmanship of small-town congregations.
Though Van Horn is better known as a railroad and ranching hub, the church has long served as a place of solace for travelers and residents alike. Today, it remains active, offering Sunday services and participating in community charity initiatives.
First Methodist Church — Cuero
Address: 211 N Clinton St, Cuero, TX 77954
Established in the 19th century, Cuero’s First Methodist Church blends Romanesque elements with the warmth of local craftsmanship. The red-brick façade, arched entryways, and stained-glass panels give it a stately yet welcoming presence in the heart of town.
The church continues to host a vibrant congregation, with Sunday services, choir programs, and seasonal events that connect present-day worshippers with Cuero’s Methodist heritage.
Grace Episcopal Church — Cuero
Address: 401 N Esplanade St, Cuero, TX 77954
Grace Episcopal Church, founded in the late 1800s, offers a charming example of Gothic Revival architecture in a small-town setting. Its pointed-arch windows, steeply pitched roof, and wood-trimmed entry convey both elegance and intimacy.
Inside, hand-carved pews and stained-glass windows create a peaceful atmosphere for worship. The church remains active, with a congregation committed to both spiritual growth and historic preservation.
Macedonia Baptist Church — Cuero
Address: 512 S Indianola St, Cuero, TX 77954
Founded by African-American residents during the Reconstruction era, Macedonia Baptist Church is an enduring symbol of faith and resilience in Cuero’s Black community. Its modest wooden structure has been maintained with care, preserving the original design while adapting to modern needs.
The church’s role extends beyond worship, serving as a venue for cultural events, civic meetings, and outreach programs that strengthen community bonds.
Visiting Tips
- Check service times before visiting; many churches welcome guests during Sunday worship and special events.
- Dress respectfully for religious services and guided tours.
- Photography is often permitted, but ask before taking interior shots during services.
- Plan around festivals—some churches host annual events that offer a deeper look at their heritage.
Preservation Notes
Many of these historic churches are protected as Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks or listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Ongoing preservation efforts—such as stained-glass restoration at the Cathedral of San Agustin, roof repairs at Grace Episcopal, and foundation stabilization at First Presbyterian Van Horn—ensure these architectural treasures remain vital parts of South Texas’s cultural landscape.
