San Fernando Cathedral
All are welcome at the oldest standing church building in Texas and the first church in San Antonio. Still an active parish (mass is held daily), San Fernando Cathedral was built in 1731 by the city's Canary Island colonists. Mexican general Santa Anna raised a crimson "flag of no quarter" here before launching his assault on the Alamo in 1836, signaling to the Texans he would take no prisoners. In 1873, following a fire after the Civil War, the chapel was replaced with the present-day construction. A small sarcophagus on display holds the ashes of unknown soldiers, presented as the remains of the defenders of the Alamo. However, some modern historians are skeptical because evidence of military uniforms was discovered, which the Texan army never wore. Special events are held here, including musical performances and televised specials. The gift shop has an ample assortment of religious items including books, cards, rosaries, and candles for purchase and placement inside the church.
