Mission de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción
This is one of the best of the Spanish missions still standing in Texas. It is a great example of colonial design in the New World. The mission is one of a string of missions established in this area by missionaries exploring the frontiers of New Spain. These were places that brought civilization to an untamed land. The missions served as churches, forts, schools, and more for people who chose to live in the area. They also brought religion, technology, and learning to the people already in the area (the benefit of this has been disputed by some). Originally the interior of the mission was decorated with colorful geometric patterns. Recent restoration work has revealed some of these patterns and other paintings. Portions are quite well preserved considering they area more than 250-years-old. There is one element that the mission cannot withstand -- mother nature. Since the building is made of the same earth that surrounds it, groundwater is wicking up into its walls causing them to soften and crumble. The moisture also threatens the interior's delicate paintings. They were partly colorful designs to decorate the interior. But some were teaching tools which helped illustrate important concepts and educate the faithful.
Mission de Nuestra Señora de la Purísima Concepción
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