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History of San Antonio
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What do you get when you cross an accordion and a Spanish guitar? Conjunto! This fusion of traditional German and Mexican music, long popular in Texas and the Southwest, is becoming increasingly popular worldwide. It's just one of many examples of the type of cultural diversity present in San Antonio.
San Antonio's diversity in part comes from its size. When one thinks about the largest cities in the country, the names that come to mind are New York, Los Angeles, Chicago and Washington D.C. But San Antonio? It is actually the eighth largest city in the country, and is at the forefront of Texas pride due to its rich history.
Today it is made up of an impressively diverse population. Just less than 60 percent of the population trace their heritage to a Spanish-speaking country. Just less than 30 percent of the population are Caucasian and about seven percent of the population are African American.
San Antonio also enjoys a subtropical climate because of its location close to the edge of the Gulf of Mexico. The average temperature hovers right under 70 degrees. San Antonio averages about 28 inches of rain per year with the bulk of the rain falling during the summer months.
Sights and Sounds of San Antonio
One of the most-traveled areas in San Antonio is the 25 blocks near downtown on the south bank of the San Antonio River known as the King William Historic Area. In the late 1800s, the King William District was the most elegant residential area in the city. Today this area features old homes, museums and the preserved River House, which held the first inside swimming pool in San Antonio.
The Alamo - is the most famous spot in Texas. The Alamo was established in 1718 as the city's first mission. Visit the Long Barrack Museum, examine the cannon in Cavalry Courtyard or just enjoy the Alamo Gardens. Admission is free.
The River Walk - is located in the heart of the city's downtown area. The beautiful walk features scenic green foliage along the banks of the river. The cobblestone walkways run the three-mile length of the walk leading visitors to the river-level restaurants, shops and nightclubs.
The San Antonio Botanical Gardens - offer a 33-acre miniature representation of the diverse Texan landscape.
The Tower of the Americas - this 750-foot-tall tower offers a panoramic view of the city.
The Institute of Texas Cultures - the creative displays here feature the 27 ethnic groups that built the Lone Star State.
The San Antonio Museum of Art - features collections ranging from ancient art to Mexican folk art.
The Hertzberg Circus Museum - features collections of memorabilia including sideshow personalities, Tom Thumb's carriage and Clown Alley.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch - Experience an African safari in the heart of Texas! More than 50 species of animals from all over the world can be seen during driving and walking safaris.
Sources:
(http://www.sanantoniocvb.com/visitors/com_history.asp)
