It is the oldest cathedral in the United States in terms of continuous, uninterrupted religious services since its founding.
The cathedral contains a sarcophagus believed to house the remains of Alamo defenders including Davy Crockett, William B. Travis, and Jim Bowie.
Pope John Paul II visited the cathedral and held a prayer service here during his 1987 visit to San Antonio.
The current facade was designed by architect Francois Giraud, who also served as the mayor of San Antonio.
The church was originally built to serve as the spiritual center for the first civil settlement in Texas, San Fernando de Béxar.
The bells currently in the tower were a gift from the King of Spain to the cathedral in the 19th century.
San Fernando Cathedral is the oldest standing religious structure in Texas and serves as the mother church of the Archdiocese of San Antonio. Founded in 1731 by Canary Islanders, the current building incorporates portions of the original 18th-century walls. It is recognized as the oldest continuously functioning Catholic parish in the United States. The cathedral serves as the final resting place for the heroes of the Battle of the Alamo, whose remains are interred in a marble sarcophagus. The interior features significant stained glass windows and intricate religious iconography. The exterior is notable for its Gothic Revival facade, which was added during a major mid-19th-century renovation. The cathedral is a primary site for the San Antonio Saga, a permanent projection mapping art installation shown on the facade. It is situated directly on Main Plaza in the historic heart of the city.
The Main Plaza square, which offers the best perspective of the full facade and the projection screen.
Visit during the evening to view 'The Saga,' a free light projection show displayed on the cathedral's facade.
Check the official website for mass schedules if you wish to observe a service, but avoid tourist activity during worship.
Take time to walk around the exterior to view the historical markers that explain the site's role in the Texas Revolution.
Do not treat the cathedral as an attraction only; remember it is an active parish and avoid loud conversations during services.
The cathedral remains an active parish; access may be restricted during private weddings, funerals, or religious services.
Maintain a quiet, respectful demeanor; modest dress is expected as it is an active house of worship.
