Last updated: January 16, 2023
Place
Main and Military Plazas
Quick Facts
Location:
includes all city-owned open areas bounded by Commerce Street, Dolorosa Street, Calder Alley, and Soledad Street, San Antonio, Texas
Significance:
The plazas, as well as nearby historic housing, government structures, and even a church, create a complete picture of civilian life in 18th-century San Antonio.
Designation:
Certified site, National Historic District, City Historic District
MANAGED BY:
Amenities
1 listed
Historical/Interpretive Information/Exhibits
Military Plaza was first established in 1722 as a parade ground and market square for the Spanish soldiers garrisoned there. While this plaza is associated with early Spanish colonialism, due in large part to the preservation of the 1749 Spanish Governor's Palace, it evolved over the years from a community gathering place and marketplace into the city’s seat of government. Main Plaza was the site of the first authorized Texas city when it was established as a market square on March 9, 1731. Soon small block residences were built around the square, with their village church (now San Fernando Cathedral) and the Casas Reales (114 East Main Plaza), their seat of government, as their focal points.
Site Information
Location (includes all city-owned open areas bounded by Commerce Street, Dolorosa Street, Calder Alley, and Soledad Street, San Antonio, Texas)
Available Facilities/Exhibits
On Military Plaza, the Italian Renaissance Revival-style city hall—built in 1888-91. On Main Plaza, the Romanesque Revival-style county courthouse—built in 1882.