How to Visit the San Fernando Cathedral: The Oldest Church in Texas

By Sara Branstetter | October 3, 2024

At more than 300 years old, San Antonio, TX easily ranks as one of the oldest cities in the United States and home to the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in the whole of Texas, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. But while everybody seems to “remember the Alamo” when visiting SA, many people are unaware of, or just simply skip, another historical treasure, the San Fernando Cathedral.

This old cathedral and the nightly light show that is held there are often considered a highlight of peoples’ visits and one of the best things to do in San Antonio. If you are interested in checking out the oldest church in Texas, read on for a complete guide to the San Fernando Cathedral.

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Visit the San Fernando Cathedral

What is the San Fernando Cathedral?

The San Fernando Cathedral is a beautiful Catholic church in downtown San Antonio that is home to the Archdiocese of San Antonio and seat of the archbishop. The cathedral claims to be the oldest, continuously operating religious community in Texas.

When was the San Fernando Cathedral Built?

The cathedral was founded in 1731 by a group of immigrants from the Canary Islands.

Who built the San Fernando Cathedral?

Immigrants from the Canary Islands, soldiers, and their families constructed the church and named it for Ferdinand III of Castile, a 13th century Spanish king. Construction on the church was completed between 1738 and 1750.

Where is the San Fernando Cathedral?

The San Fernando Cathedral is located in the heart of downtown San Antonio on the Main Plaza, across the street from City Hall, and approximately 2 blocks west of the San Antonio Riverwalk.

Who is buried at the San Fernando Cathedral?

Guests to San Antonio often make a beeline for the most well-known historical attraction, the Alamo. But after a brief visit to the Alamo, you can continue your tour of SA at the San Fernando Cathedral, which has deep ties to the Alamo mission and the lives lost there.

Three famous defenders of the Alamo who were killed on March 6, 1836, in the tragic battle with General Santa Anna are interred at the San Fernando Cathedral. Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and William Travis are all laid to rest in a tomb in the Cathedral’s south entrance and you can visit their tomb during opening hours of the cathedral.

How far is the San Fernando Cathedral from the Alamo?

The cathedral is about ¾ mile, due west of the Alamo. You can walk between the two along the street level of Houston St. or Commerce St. Or you can take the scenic route and walk along the Riverwalk level.

From the Alamo, head west toward the Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk Hotel and cut through the lobby to the river level. From there, continue walking west along the river until you come to a fork. Turn left at the fork and then head to the street level at Commerce St. or Market St. The San Fernando Cathedral will be just across the Main Plaza.

What Can I See at the San Fernando Cathedral?

The church sanctuary, courtyard, tomb, plaque from the Pope, and gift shop are all open to the public. You can tour these on your own or hire a local guide for more in-depth information.

What is the San Fernando Cathedral Light Show?

Every evening Tuesday-Sunday at 9pm and 9:30pm, the façade of the San Fernando Cathedral becomes the backdrop for a multi-media, lights and projection show. The Saga is a 24 minute long experience retelling the history of San Antonio, Texas, and the United States that bathes more than 7,000 sq. ft. of space in light. It is an absolutely incredible experience.

The Saga is a must-do when visiting San Antonio and it is free and open to the public. Chairs are set out in the Main Plaza for viewing, but you will need to arrive early to get a seat as it is first come, first served. I recommend arriving an hour before the first show begins (especially on weekends) to guarantee a good seat.

Information on Visiting the San Fernando Cathedral

Given both the historical significance of the cathedral as well as its architectural beauty, a visit to the San Fernando Cathedral is highly recommended on any trip to the Alamo city. The good news: it won’t take you super long and your visit is FREE! No tickets or reservations are required to visit the cathedral so you can stop in when it is convenient for you.

The San Fernando Cathedral is open Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm, on Saturdays from 9am to 6pm, and on Sundays from 7:00am to 6:30pm.

If you would like to visit the cathedral for the purposes of attending a Mass, you can do so Monday-Friday at 12:05pm, Saturday at 5pm, or Sunday at 10am or 2pm. Spanish and bilingual services are also held on Sundays at 8am, 12pm, and 5pm.

If you plan to drive to the San Fernando Cathedral, I recommend parking at the City Tower Garage, located at 60 N. Flores St. It is approximately one block away and is among the most affordable parking garages in San Antonio. *Protip – you can park for free all day on Sunday from 7am to midnight at this garage.

An alternative option to the City Tower Garage in the event that it is full, is the Rand Garage. This garage is also affordable and only two blocks from the San Fernando Cathedral.

WEBSITE | 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205