Mission Concepcion 🇺🇸

Step into living history at Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción de Acuña, also known as Mission Concepción, located in San Antonio. Originally established in East Texas in 1711 to convert the Hasinai to Catholicism, Franciscan Friars relocated the mission in 1731 to San Antonio, where it primarily served the Coahuiltecan-speaking Pajalat people. Today, it stands as the oldest unrestored stone church in America, a designated National Historic Landmark, and part of Texas's first UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Beyond its deep religious roots, the grounds played a pivotal role in Texas history as the site of the 1835 Battle of Concepción, considered the first major engagement of the Texas Revolution. When you visit, you will explore a historic complex featuring a sanctuary, nave, convento, and granary. Be sure to look closely at the architecture—while brightly painted frescoes once covered both the interior and exterior, weathered traces remain on the facade today.

Inside, careful restorations have uncovered remarkable original artwork across the convento, sanctuary, and nave walls, offering a rare glimpse into the past. Notably, Catholic Mass is still held at the mission every Sunday.

What to see at Mission Concepcion

• Stroll through the oldest unrestored stone church in America
• Examine surviving historic frescoes on the weathered facade and restored interiors
• Explore the sanctuary, nave, convento, and granary of this UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Visit the historic site of the 1835 Battle of Concepción, a key Texas Revolution clash
• Experience active history by attending a Sunday Catholic Mass inside the mission

Visiting tips

Look closely at the walls and ceilings inside the convento, nave, and sanctuary to view preserved original frescoes exposed during historical restorations.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Sunday morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Mission Concepcion is easy to reach on San Antonio’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Alamo Mission and Cathedral of San Fernando. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our San Antonio travel guide.