WE VISIT SAN ANTONIO

WE VISIT SAN ANTONIO

The City of San Antonio is best known for the Alamo, whose heroic defenders died in the fight for independence from Mexico. This historic building (originally constructed to be a Mission) is now in the heart of the downtown area. We found the Alamo impressive but were captivated by the beautiful Riverwalk. The San Antonio river winds through the city. The walkways along the river are beautifully landscaped and are home to elegant hotels, restaurants, and even a riverside theater. We attended an Elderhostel in San Antonio and were able to enjoy the city, the Mexican Market, and visit the various ethnic neighborhoods.


The theater along the riverwalk	A scene along the riverwalk


Hotels along the riverwalk	A lovely place for a stroll


The Alamo	Tower at Fort Sam Houston

La Villita ( the little village) is at the site of the San Antonio settlement in 1792. Most of the houses there today date back to the 19th century. These houses now host gift shops, craft shops and a cafe. La Villita is a site where San Antonio holds many of its colorful fiestas . It is a National Register Historic District.


Many of the old houses now are home to gift and craft shops.	The 19th century church is still in use and a favorite for weddings.

In the 18th century Spanish priests established a series of missions in the territory claimed by Spain. It was their task to convert the Indians living there and establish fortified communities.


Mission San Jose	Rose window Mission San Jose

At the Elderhostel we were introduced to the customs and contributions to the city of the various ethnic groups. The Mexican Americans and the Germans now comprise the two major groups. But we were also able to see some of what still exists today of the Texas cattle industry.


A Cattle Auction	Our guide entertaining us with cowboy songs and stories