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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

Grave of Col. James W. Fannin Jr. and Men

Monument marks grave of Colonel Fannin and 342 men who had surrendered to Mexican forces during the Texas Revolution, and were massacred at the order of General Santa Anna on Palm Sunday morning, March 27, 1836. Two miles south of Goliad off U.S. 183, a few hundred yards from Presidio La Bahia.

Goliad, TX Monuments

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

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

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

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

Things to do near Goliad, TX

Goliad State Park

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

Old Frio County Jail Museum

Features items used by Frio County early settlers. Located at the corner of Pecan and Medina Streets....

Texas Travel Information Center

In South Texas at mile marker 18 on Interstate Highway 35, one of the 12 Texas Travel Information Centers operated by the Tex...

Casa Navarro State Historic Site

Former home of eminent statesman, rancher, Jose Antonio Navarro. Site consists of three restored structures: his home, kitche...

Panna Maria Visitors' Center

Administered by the Panna Maria Historical Society, the center is housed in the 1875 Pilarczyk Store. Souvenirs, handmade cra...