Following designation of San Antonio’s five iconic missions as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), U.S. Rep. Lamar Smith (R-TX), whose constituency includes the San Antonio area, joined the region’s other congressional representatives in celebrating the decision.
“Congratulations to the City of San Antonio, Bexar County and all who have been involved in obtaining this high honor,” Smith said. “The San Antonio missions embody our rich heritage. These missions are more than Texas landmarks; they are international treasures that we will continue working to preserve and protect for generations to come.”
The Spanish missions were constructed by Franciscan missionaries in the 18th century during a time when the city was part of the New Spain Colony. The five mission sites include Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada and Mission San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo). The buildings hold nearly 300 years of influential history and culture. Throughout the 1800s, the missions played a critical role in the history of Mexico, the struggle for Texas independence and its eventual statehood.
“The designation of the historic San Antonio missions as a UNESCO World Heritage Site is something all of Texas and the United States should celebrate proudly,” U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar (D-TX) said. “These missions are a testament to the long and rich history of Texas and its people. They serve as a looking glass into what life was like in colonial New Spain and independent Texas. This designation is also one of personal pride for San Antonians, many of whom are the descendants of the original Coahuiltecan peoples and Spanish immigrants who lived in and around the area.”
San Antonio’s congressional delegation also helped shepherd passage of legislation last year that expanded the boundaries of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
“I am proud and grateful that UNESCO designated the San Antonio Missions a World Heritage Site,” U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro (D-TX) said. “Today is particularly special for the many San Antonians who have worked for years to make this prestigious honor a reality. Not only does the World Heritage Site designation raise San Antonio’s international profile, it stands to add over a thousand jobs and more than $100 million to our city’s economy. This recognition is just one more reason why folks from around the world should be sure to visit San Antonio and enjoy all our culturally rich city has to offer.”
The aforementioned delegation also includes U.S. Reps. Lloyd Doggett (D) and Will Hurd (R).