Described as a quaint building, with an architecture that shows its age, the site of the Battle of the Alamo is truly one for the story books.  We've all heard the story of the Battle of the Alamo, where a few good soldiers held their walls until their dying breaths.  But how many of us have heard the legends and myths that surround this tomb.

As the fateful story goes, in 1836, Mexican leader Santa Ana surrendered to General Sam Houston at the Battle of San Jacinto.  What does this have to do with the Alamo? Well, as the leaders met and spoke their terms of agreement, a messenger rode out from Santa Ana's ranks, delivering the message to his men stationed outside of the Alamo. It read 'Destroy the Alamo'! One last victory for the Mexican assault.  But they were repulsed by the guardians of the Alamo. The men returned unsuccessful, screaming of ghostly apparitions carrying flaming swords.  Why? Because previously, Santa Ana's wave of invasion had already once defeated the men at the Alamo, killing every single person in the building.  It was a Catholic Mission, and blood painted its walls. The ghosts of those brave soldiers drove away the second attack that was meant to level their tomb.

Okay, so that's the real story right?  What's myth about a true historical event? Nothing.  You're absolutely right.  But remember, the most important thing you can do on a trip is to learn about the history of the place.  But the fun thing to do is learn about the ethereal phenomena that occurred as a result of this bloodletting.

Having lived in San Antonio myself, even having been treated at the Fort Sam Houston Military Hospital, it should come as no surprise that I've ventured to the Alamo myself.  Now, while I can't say that I can confirm the eerie noises, and blood freezing moans of pain that many others have encountered, I can verify that there is just something weird about the place.  You know where you are the moment you step on the grounds. It's spooky, to be honest, as there really shouldn't be a feeling of cold air and a shiver down your spine in the middle of July heat. Maybe if you have sunstroke, but otherwise, it's just not normal.

Every day, people go in and out, drive past it, or glance at the revered building as they hurry to their next destination.  And every day, people have their own experiences.  Some caretakers have said they can hear the ghostly clash of blades, and the pop of gunfire at night.  Others say that apparitions wander the halls.  Passerbys see odd flashes of light, like the explosion of musket fire from the roof top.  Whatever witnesses see, the legend holds.  That these soldiers will do in death, what they could not in life.  They will protect the Alamo from anyone who would mean to do it harm.  

If you plan to go to San Antonio, I would highly recommend seeing this piece of history for yourself, right after a trip down the River Walk.  But just remember, don't try to do the building harm, otherwise a ghostly solider may try and stop you.