The Alamo

The Battle of the Alamo Alamo Accommodations Things To Do Visit the Alamo

Built by the Spanish in the 1700’s as Mission San Antonio de Valero, this historic mission and fortress compound was constructed with the intention of educating and converting local Native Americans to Christianity. In 1793, the Spanish relinquished their rights to the land, giving it over to the Indians, who continued to farm the fields in and around the city. The Alamo was the scene of several military actions, including the famous Battle of the Alamo in 1836, a pivotal conflict between the Republic of Texas and Mexico during the Texas Revolution. Today, the Alamo is a popular tourist attraction and museum, hosting thousands of visitors each year.

The Battle of the Alamo. After the Spanish abandoned the mission, the Alamo building was occupied by Mexican forces until December 1835, when it was surrendered to Texan forces during the Texas Revolution. In February 1836, Colonel William B. Travis entered the Alamo with a force of just 187 men to defend the building against the Mexican army. Approximately 6,000 Mexican soldiers laid siege to the fortress for 13 days, and all of the Texan defenders were killed, with 200 Mexican soldiers killed and 400 wounded. While the military significance of the battle is the matter of much debate, the Alamo itself is regarded with reverence by Texans, who believe that San Antonio and the Alamo played a critical role in the success of the Texas Revolution.  [Top]

Things To Do at the Alamo. Enjoy a visit to the old church that displays exhibits of artifacts like Travis’ ring, Davy Crockett’s buckskin vest, and a period Bowie knife. The Alamo Gardens feature manicured lawns and flower beds and an outdoor exhibit called the Wall of History. The Long Barrack Museum includes a theater where visitors can view a film on the history of the Alamo and see exhibits that explain the Alamo’s evolution from mission to fortress and finally to Shrine. The Alamo Gift Museum offers exhibits on Alamo and Texas history and also includes Mexican military artifacts, long rifles, bowie knives, and more. And be sure to look for the cannons, located in Cavalry Courtyard, that were actually used in the famous battle.  [Top]

Visit the Alamo. The Alamo is open 9am-5pm daily, except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, with extended summer hours. Admission to the Alamo is free. www.thealamo.org.  [Top]