* Founded: 1731
* Location: San Antonio, Texas
Mission Concepción is the oldest unrestored stone church in the United States. It was founded by Franciscan missionaries to serve the Native American population in the area. The mission is known for its beautiful architecture, which includes intricate stone carvings and paintings.
2. Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo)
* Founded: 1718
* Location: San Antonio, Texas
The Alamo is one of the most famous Spanish missions in Texas. It was founded as a mission to serve the Native American population in the area, but it is best known for its role in the Texas Revolution. In 1836, a group of Texan soldiers led by James Bowie and William Travis defended the Alamo against a much larger Mexican army. The Texans were eventually defeated, but their sacrifice helped to inspire the Texan army to victory in the war for independence.
3. Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo
* Founded: 1720
* Location: San Antonio, Texas
Mission San José is one of the most beautiful Spanish missions in Texas. It is known for its elaborate façade, which is covered in intricate carvings. The mission was also home to a large agricultural operation, which produced food for the missionaries and the Native American population.