A series of Spanish missions in Texas has acknowledged their World Heritage Inscription this weekend. Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo, Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purisima Concepción de Acuña, Mission Espada and Mission San Juan Capistrano are the four missions that are included in San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

San Antonio de Valero is the other mission that has acquired its place in history after a well-known battle in 1836. Secretary of the Interior, Sally Jewell, said in a news release, “The San Antonio Missions are universally admired for their representation of the unique, interwoven heritage of Spanish and indigenous cultures in the US, and warrant worldwide recognition”.

The inscription ceremony put forward the hard work of many years by individuals and organizations to attain this destination, sharing a vital chapter with the world in the history of America. The efforts that have been put forward by individuals and organizations will help San Antonio to become a top tourist destination.

Susan Snow, archeologist for San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, said in a news release that the Spanish missions were engraved to this important list because they are a living example of bringing together different cultures. Snow added that she has been coordinating the community efforts since 2007 to secure UNESCO World Heritage status.

The missions put together some of the most well-known symbols in the world, such as the Great Wall of China and Stonehenge in England as World Heritage Sites. Other sites in the US include the Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona, Liberty Hall in Philadelphia, and the Statue of Liberty in New York.