20 things to know about San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest church in Texas

first church built in San Antonio, the oldest standing church in Texas, and one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Photo circa 1907) The 18th-century San Fernando Cathedral is the, the oldest standing church in Texas, and one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S. It’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (Photo circa 1907) less first church built in San Antonio, the oldest standing church in Texas, and one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S. It’s listed on the National Register of The 18th-century San Fernando Cathedral is the, the oldest standing church in Texas, and one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S. It’s listed on the National Register of ... more Photo: Ernst Raba /San Antonio Conservation Society Photo: Ernst Raba /San Antonio Conservation Society Image 1 of / 77 Caption Close 20 things to know about San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest church in Texas 1 / 77 Back to Gallery

With the help of an acclaimed French artist, the San Fernando Cathedral is now one of the top tourist destinations in the Lone Star State, but its ascension dates back long before the stunning installation of "San Antonio: a Saga" first lit up Main Plaza.

The oldest standing church building in Texas is said to be the San Fernando Cathedral; the cornerstone was first laid years before the Alamo church was built.

From the wedding of an Alamo defender to a visit from the Pope, this cathedral, one of the oldest in the U.S., towers with history and lore at the heart of the city's center.

Click through the gallery above for 20 facts you may not know about San Fernando, including whether the ashes of Davy Crockett and company are entombed there.

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