This story is part of Big Wonder–our series that explores uniquely larger-than-life stories in Texas.

Established 300 years ago, Mission San Jose is known as the Queen of Missions, and for good reason: its architecture, flying buttresses, and castle-like facade is an automatic visual draw. It’s also the largest of five missions in the San Antonio area, which are classified as the First World Heritage Sites in Texas by UNESCO and are the only heritage sites in the U.S. that remain active parishes, with services every Sunday.