The Oldest Church In Texas Dates Back To The 1700s And You Need To See It
By Katie Lawrence|Published January 17, 2019
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Our state has some of the richest, most captivating history in the nation. As a result, century-old buildings abound in big cities and small towns alike, their extensive pasts made apparent by fading paint and structural cracks. San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio is not only one of the oldest churches in Texas, but the entire country as well. It’s weathered strong storms and bloody battles, standing the test of time and emerging stronger from each successive adversity. See for yourself:
Built before 1750, this historic cathedral is not only one of the oldest in Texas, but the entire country as well. It's named after Ferdinand III of Castile, who reigned during the 13th century.
Although the building has undergone several renovations, the original walls still stand. Gothic Revival architecture gives it an almost foreboding outward appearance, but that doesn't stop visitors from pouring in by the thousands.
Over 5,000 people attend mass at the church each week, making it the epicenter of Catholicism in San Antonio. More than 900 baptisms, 100 weddings and funerals, and countless other events are held here annually.
You'll be awestruck by how intricate some of the decor is. A golden altar commands the room, its carvings so immaculate that nothing short of divine intervention could've created them.
Tourists come in troves to marvel at this tomb, in which the remains of Davy Crockett himself supposedly lie. While the validity of that claim is questionable, we do know for a fact the cathedral played a role in the Battle of the Alamo.
The church is most notable for the spectacular light show projected onto its facade every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. A video art masterpiece by world-renowned artist Xavier de Richemont, the production narrates San Antonio's incredibly rich and captivating history.
Free of charge, the event takes place at 9:00, 9:30, and 10:00 p.m. on the aforementioned days. It's open to the public, so bring a lawn chair and get ready to be dazzled.
You'll find the cathedral at 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205. No matter what your religious affiliation is, this architectural wonder can be appreciated by all.
