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Both a state park and international historic site, reconstructed birthplace and statue of one of Mexico's most famous military figures, Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza (1829-1862). Mexican general and liberal leader was minister of war under Juárez. In 1862 he commanded outnumbered, poorly equipped Mexican army in defense of the Central Mexico city of Puebla against elite French force. Zaragoza flung back attacking army, inflicting heavy losses and forcing its withdrawal to east coast; Zaragoza died of typhoid fever on Sept. 11, 1862. It is not generally known that this French army had proposed to march into Texas to establish aid and supply line to Confederate forces-but they reckoned without Zaragoza. The battle date, Cinco de Mayo (May 5), is a national holiday throughout Mexico, and is celebrated here and in several Texas cities. Site is two miles south off U.S. 183 at Presidio La Bahia.

Attractions and Upcoming Events

Goliad State Park

184-acre park features reconstructed, refurnished replica Mission Nuestra Senora del Espritu Santo de Ziga, generally called Mission Espritu Santo. Excellent interpretive displays, plus camping and picnicking area, rest rooms and river fishing spots. Mission established 1749

Goliad, TX State Parks

Market House Museum

Quaint structure with cupola on the courthouse square. First public use on Aug. 30, 1853; in 1886, building became a firehouse with meeting hall. Local volunteer fire department used the building until 1964 and restored for use as museum in 1967

Goliad, TX Museums


Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site

Both a state park and international historic site, reconstructed birthplace and statue of one of Mexico's most famous military figures, Gen. Ignacio Zaragoza (1829-1862). Mexican general and liberal leader was minister of war under Juárez. In 1862

Goliad, TX Historic Sites

Presidio La Bahia

As conquistadors of centuries ago explored new lands for "God, Gold and Glory," the Church played an integral part in colonization and dominion over vast New World empires. Missions were often first permanent Spanish settlement in new areas. To protect mission endeavors, a presidio (fort)

Goliad, TX History

Things to do near Goliad, TX

Sunderland's Cactus Garden

Five acres of native and exotic cacti and succulents; among thousands of plants is the largest nursery-grown cactus in Texas,...

Popeye Statue

Whimsical salute to area spinach crop depicts the cartoon sailor man; a favorite spot for snapshots with children; downtown c...

Alamo Country Club

Course Access: PublicHoles: 18Reserve Advance Tee Times: Yes...

Goliad State Park

184-acre park features reconstructed, refurnished replica Mission Nuestra Senora del Espritu Santo de Ziga, generally called ...

Mission Nuestra Senora de la Purisma Concepcion

Established in 1731, more than 20 years under construction. Massive church with twin towers and cupola is oldest unrestored s...