The Spanish Governor's Place is the result of an early seventeenth century rivalry between Spain and France for dominance over the territory now a part of the Southwestern United States. Spain had Texas and the West and France had the lands which were part of the Louisiana Purchase.

Labeled "the most beautiful building in San Antonio" by the National Geographic Society and a national historic landmark, it often housed officials of the Spanish Province of Texas, but no Spanish governor actually ever lived here. In fact, this was the former residence and headquarters of the captain of the Presidio de Béxar. From here, the commander could watch his troops drilling across the street. The source of the house's misnomer is not entirely clear; as the home of the highest local authority and thus the nicest digs in the area, the "palace" simply hosted important Spanish officials who came through town.

This building isn't really a palace, but it is a lovely Spanish colonial home with a great garden in the back. Over the entrance is the original keystone that contains the carved, double headed eagle of the Hapsburg coat-of-arms and the date, 1749. Its thick-walled interiors are beautifully decorated with period furnishings. The rooms are simple yet elegant. What is impressive that in addition to standard furniture such as beds and chairs, the rooms are also filled with unique objects from every day life at that time. Outside, a cobblestone patio and native greenery surround the purportedly haunted fountain. Feel free to relax in the shade and enjoy the peace which you listen to the gurgling fountain.

This is one of those hidden gems sometimes found. Visitors who take the time to walk through feel like they have discovered a secret. It takes less than an hour to walk through but you feel quite fulfilled after you do. This site is usually not very crowded and admission is only $1.50.

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