Visit to San Antonio, Texas
The Tower of the Americas is a 750 foot high tourist attraction with an observation deck at the top. The ground level conditions vary at different vantage points around the tower.
The Acequia Madre de Valero, or the main irrigation ditch of the Valero Mission by the Spanish and their Indian charges led to the founding of San Antonio in 1718. Hand-dug and made of dressed limestone, the acequia diverted water from San Antonio River through fields belonging to San Antonio de Valero Mission. Irrigation was key to the growth of the mission and town. The ditch became part of the modern waterworks after 1877, with a section restored in 1968. The site was named a National Historic Civil Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Civil Engineers.
At street level “La Antorcha de la Amistad” (Spanish for “The Torch of Friendship”) is a monumental abstract sculpture by Mexican sculptor Sebastián.
Beautification of the San Antonio River in the downtown was a long-time dream of local residents. The river banks were landscaped beginning in 1904, only to be devastated by floods in 1913 and 1921. A flood retention dam was completed north of downtown in 1926. Local architect Robert H.H. Hugman presented the mayor with his vision to transform the meandering waterway with Spanish-inspired stone stairs and walkways, arched bridges, and river-level shops and restaurants. The project was delayed for ten years by local politics and the Great Depression. Construction finally began in 1939. Works Progress Administration crews labored for two years to build the River Walk. It was dedicated on April 21, 1941. Hugman opened his office on the lower level of the Clifford Building at the Commerce Street Bridge.
One of the bridge crossings over the river with its steeply pitched stairs. A plaque recognizes the role of the Works Progress Administration.
Tower Life Building is a 31-story building and a historical landmark in Downtown San Antonio, Texas, USA. Completed in 1929 and standing at 404 feet tall.
This rigid canopy structure at street level gives some much needed protection from the daytime sun and heat.