More San Antonio

We visit Mission San Jose, one of 4 Spanish frontier missions which, along with the Alamo (formerly Mission San Antonio de Valero), formed the northern edge of Spain's North American colonies in the 18th century. The missions spread south from downtown San Antonio; they set out to convert Native Indians to christianity. They are still in use as catholic parish churches.

Mission San Jose

Mission San Juan commenced in the 1720's and operated as a mission for approx. 100 years.The limestone church and surrounding buildings, including living quarters were of spanish colonial baroque architecture.
It ceased as a mission in 1824 and was left neglected until the 1930's when the Franciscans returned; they have remained to this day.

Mission San Jose is one of the finest of the missions. The church is spectacular.  The buildings are preserved by the National Park Services. We explore the museum on the grounds of the mission including a 20 minute film explaining the history.

Entry to the mission was entirely free. We were there for several hours.

After returning the rental car we use public transport to get around.  The bus stop is outside the Travelers World RV Park. Easy access to the city and the River Walk; the jewel in San Antonio's crown.

A one way fare into downtown is .55 cents and the bus runs on the half hour.  Too easy! For the next 3 days, (by this time we have extended our stay in San Antonio to a weeek!) we bus into town each day.