Mission San Francisco de la Espada (Mission Espada)

Mission Espada was founded in 1731 as part of the Spanish mission system in San Antonio and is the southernmost of the city's five historic missions. The mission complex includes an 18th-century stone church, defensive walls, and a restored acequia (irrigation) system that dates to the Spanish colonial period. It is part of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and the San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site interprets colonial mission life and continuing religious and community functions.