The Presidio, established in 1749 on this site during the Spanish colonial period, was crucial to the development of Texas. Witnessing filibustering expeditions and playing a role in the Mexican war for independence from Spain, the Presidio was the site of the Goliad Massacre on Palm Sunday, March 1836. It played host to one of the bloodiest chapters in Texas' quest for independence from Mexico after the shocking Texian defeat at the Battle of Coleto Creek. The massacre prompted the rallying cry, "Remember Goliad" heard at the Battle of San Jacinto.
Hours
Open Daily
10 a.m.–5 p.m.
Last admission at 4:30 p.m.
Tickets
Adult $5
Senior/Veteran/Teacher/First Responder $3
Child (6-17) $2
Child (5 and under) Free
Family (2 adults & 1 child) $8, each additional child $1
See the site
Plan Your Visit
Find out all there is to do at the site and other area attractions.
Presidio la Bahia History
Presidio La Bahía, designated a National Historic Landmark, is considered the world's finest example of a Spanish frontier fort.
The Quarters
Stay a night or two in one of the few surviving Spanish Colonial Presidios in North America.
School Tours
During the months of March, April and May, Presidio La Bahia offers free admission to 4th and 7th grade social studies students and their teachers.
Events at Presidio la Bahía
1836 Camp of Instruction!
Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Join us for our annual Camps of Instruction on the plaza of Presidio La Bahia! This year we are doing something a little different and host two different groups at the same time! We will have a company of living historians representing the Texian Army and a group of living historians representing the Mexican Army. Throughout the day each will demonstrate drill and camp life in their own unique (and similar) ways.
Meet a Texas Revolution Reenactor!
Saturday 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.Meet a Texas Revolution reenactor and enjoy the tales of a reenacting legend!
39th Annual Goliad Massacre and Living History Program
Saturday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.39th Annual Goliad Massacre and Living History Program. Saturday has presentations by historians, a Reenactment of the Battle of Coleto Creek, Camp Demonstrations, Drill and Firing Demonstrations, and an evening Candlelight Tour. Sunday has a Memorial service and a reenactment of the Goliad massacre. Tickets are $5 per person per day, children under age 6 are free. Saturday Night Candlelight Tour Timed Tickets are $5 per person.
Support Our Historic Sites
Make a gift to the Friends of the Texas Historical Commission, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization dedicated to supporting the historic sites of the THC.
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