Spanish Governor's Palace facts for kids
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Spanish Governor's Palace
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 Spanish Governor's Palace
Location in Texas
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| Location | San Antonio, Texas, USA |
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| Built | 1749 |
| NRHP reference No. | 70000741 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | April 15, 1970 |
| Designated NHL | April 15, 1970 |
The Spanish Governor's Palace is a really old building in Downtown San Antonio, Texas. It was built with adobe, a special kind of mud brick, during a time when Spain ruled Texas.
This palace is the only part left of a big Spanish fort complex from the 1700s. It's also the only example in Texas of a fancy Spanish home from that time. The National Geographic Society even called it "the most beautiful building in San Antonio." In 1970, it was named a National Historic Landmark, which means it's super important to American history. Today, the city owns it, and you can visit it as a museum!
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History of the Palace
The Spanish Governor's Palace was planned way back in 1722. It was finally finished in 1749. Above the main door, you can see a special stone with the coat-of-arms of Ferdinand VI, who was the King of Spain at that time. The year 1749 is also carved there.
Early Uses of the Building
When it was first built, the palace was the home and office for the captain of the local fort, called the Presidio San Antonio de Béxar. Later, it became the official home for the Spanish governors who lived in San Antonio. These governors were important leaders who helped manage the Texas region for Spain.
In 1772, the building became even more important. It was made the main government building, or "capitol," for the entire Texas region of Spanish Texas.
Why the Palace Was Built
The Spanish built the Presidio San Antonio de Béxar fort to protect the area. This included important missions like the San Antonio de Valero Mission (which you might know as The Alamo). It also protected other missions in what is now the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The fort and palace helped keep the growing Spanish colony safe.
What the Palace Looks Like
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The Spanish Governor's Palace is a one-story building made of stone and stucco. Stucco is a type of plaster used on walls. Inside, it has ten rooms. Outside, there's a beautiful big courtyard and a fountain. Some people even say the palace is haunted!
Where to Find the Palace
The palace is located right in the middle of San Antonio. You can find it between Market Square and the famous San Antonio River Walk. It's also very close to the current city hall. The address is 105 Plaza de Armas, San Antonio.
