The Spanish Governor’s Palace was not in fact a palace for a governor, but was rather the headquarters and residence of the presidio (or fort) of San Antonio de Bexar’s captain, the ranking representative of the king of Spain in the absence of the governor. For this reason, the residence was intentionally built in close proximity to the Mission San Antonio de Valero—later known as the Alamo.

Although its exact age is unknown, the adobe and stone structure was likely built around the mid-18th century. Particularly striking are the palace’s three-foot-thick stone walls, and its eclectic mix of historic furniture and artifacts. The building’s highlight is the magnificent courtyard, a natural patio with a canopy of live oaks stretching over lush tropical plants. Gentle breezes, chirping birds and a soothing fountain transport visitors to an oasis seemingly far away from the surrounding urban environment.

The Spanish Governor's Palace was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1970. It represents the only remaining example of original Spanish residential architecture in the state.