San Antonio

The city covers 1067 square kilometers (412 square miles) across central and south Texas, primarily in Bexar County with smaller portions in Medina County and Comal County. Limestone cliffs characterize the terrain, while numerous waterways cross through the urban landscape. The San Antonio River flows through downtown, forming the backbone of an extensive riverfront network. Elevation ranges from 650 to 1000 feet (198 to 305 meters) above sea level.

Spanish missionaries founded the settlement in 1718 as a waypoint between their missions in eastern Texas and military posts in northern Mexico. The 1836 Battle of the Alamo made it a symbol of the Texas independence struggle against Mexico. Following the Civil War, railroad arrival in 1877 transformed it into a major commercial hub. Military presence expanded significantly during World War I and World War II, establishing several permanent bases.

Residents celebrate their Mexican-American identity through the annual Fiesta San Antonio, a ten-day festival featuring parades, music, and traditional cuisine that attracts millions of visitors. The event showcases the city's bilingual culture. The Texas Institute of Cultures documents contributions from more than thirty ethnic groups to regional history. Mariachi bands perform regularly at Market Square, the largest Mexican marketplace outside Mexico.

The River Walk network extends 15 miles (24 kilometers) through downtown, connecting hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues along the San Antonio River. The international airport sits 8 miles (13 kilometers) north of downtown. Public transportation includes buses and a heritage streetcar line. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F (35°C), making spring and fall more comfortable for visits. Most major attractions are within walking distance in the downtown area.

Fort Sam Houston, Lackland Air Force Base, and Randolph Air Force Base form Joint Base San Antonio, the largest military installation in the Department of Defense. University Health System operates the only Level I trauma facility in south Texas. The city hosts more than fifty colleges and universities. The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo ranks among the ten largest livestock exhibitions in North America and has run annually since 1950.