Cathedral of San Fernando in San Antonio

The Cathedral of San Fernando in San Antonio has been a historical landmark in the city for nearly three centuries and continues to be a major attraction for its beauty and history. The cathedral has always been considered the center of San Antonio and holds a special place in the city. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the Cathedral of San Fernando in San Antonio to explore the facility. The cathedral was founded in 1731 by fifteen families who had just arrived from the Canary Islands. The families decided to name the venue San Fernando after Ferdinand III of Castille who ruled the area in the 13th century. Ferdinand III was King of Castille from 1217 to 1230.

Every weekend, over 5,000 people participate in the masses that are held at the cathedral. It is estimated that over a hundred weddings, almost a thousand baptisms, and one hundred funerals are performed at the famous cathedral ever year. There are hundreds of other services that are performed each year in the cathedral such as concerts, television specials, symphonies, and other special events. On a daily basis, hundreds of people pour into the church to visit, light a candle, participate in various devotional traditions and pray. Tour buses frequently arrive to the cathedral's steps making it one of the most toured attractions in San Antonio. Cathedral of San Fernando is the busiest house of worship in San Antonio and will continue that tradition for many years to come. It is a magnificent place that has an enduring presence as the spiritual focal point of San Antonio.

The role that the church has played in history extends beyond housing and spiritual services. In 1836, Cathedral of San Fernando played a role in the battle of Alamo. A flag was hoisted from the church's tower, marking the beginning of the siege. Because of Cathedral's prominent role in history, Pope John Paul II made a visit to the cathedral in September 1987. Cathedral of San Fernando is the mother church of the Archdiocese of San Antonio and is the seat of the archbishop. Over the years, the church has endured slight renovations, enlarging the gothic style and adding stone carvings in 1800's. The last known renovation to take place in the cathedral occurred in 1920 when stained glass windows were added. To preserve the integrity of the church, the building was added to the National Register of Historic Places. Currently, San Fernando is noted as the oldest cathedral in the United States.

The heart of Catholic religious life in San Antonio begins at the Cathedral of San Fernando. One of the most prominent festivals that takes place at the church is called the Fiesta. Thousands of visitors attend the annual Fiesta Week. The second most popular event at the cathedral is the Good Friday Passion Play which also attracts thousands to the church's doors. Regular mass services are scheduled through the weekdays at 6:15AM and 12PM. Sacramental services take place from 11:45-12PM during the week.