 "The Little Alsace of Texas" rich in
European appearance and traditions, founded in 1844 by Henri Castro, an empresario of the
Texas Republic who brought a group of Alsatian settlers. Today in this quaint Texas
village, past and present intermingle within a curve of the Medina River. Watch especially
for examples of German-style country cottages, whose roofs are unequally pitched (usually
on the back side) in a manner similar to lean-to design. Some buildings and houses are
registered as historic.
Castroville is also a center for agricultural businesses,
widely known for genetic research and artificial breeding of livestock.
Castroville Regional Park -
On Medina River has picnicking, swimming pool, fishing,
athletic courts, and camping with hookups (fee). South off U.S. 90 at west edge of city.
Landmark Inn State Historic Structure-
 Tranquility of the past preserved
at inn that first served stagecoach travelers; restored to 1940s
era with ceiling fans, rocking chairs on galleries, no radio or
TV intrusion. Interpretive center, exhibit of artifacts found in
restoration, old water-powered grist mill, other structures.
The Landmark Inn also has a museum shop and historical resource center. The park is
closed Tuesday and Wednesday, and open for overnight guests Wednesday- Sunday night.
All rooms are air conditioned.
Located on Florence and Florella Streets, just off U.S. 90.
St. Louis Catholic Church -
The "new" church was built in 1868-70. Nearby
still stands a tiny chapel built by the colonists themselves as the first community
project of the Alsatian pioneers. The chapel is on grounds of adjacent Moye Retreat
Center, former convent and boys' military school. St. Louis Day church festival is
celebrated yearly, usually on closest Sunday to Aug. 25. Visitors welcomed. U.S. 90 and
Angelo St.
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