The intent to build the temple was announced on June 24, 2001, by church president Gordon B. Hinckley, during a devotional in San Antonio.

[4] A groundbreaking ceremony, to signify the beginning of construction, was held on March 29, 2003, conducted by H. Bruce Stucki, a general authority.

On March 29, 2003, a site dedication and groundbreaking ceremony was held to signify beginning of construction, and was attended by 450 members.

More than 20,000 people attended to watch the event, which featured over 4,000 singers and dancers, horses, fireworks, and presentations of Texas history, family values, and Latter-day Saint beliefs.

[7][8] At the time of its completion, the San Antonio Texas Temple served about 45,000 church members in an area spanning from Killeen to Brownsville.

The celestial room features a floor to ceiling art glass pieces depicting the tree of life (as found in the Book of Mormon).

Designed by Rehler, Vaughn & Koone, the temple's architecture reflects both the cultural heritage of San Antonio and its spiritual significance to the church.

[2] These elements are designed to invoke “the rugged beauty of South Texas.”[10] The structure stands 115 feet tall and is constructed with granite.

[11] The temple’s interior “is beautifully furnished with African Cherrywood, stained glass windows, paintings of Christ’s life, and a mural by San Antonio artist Keith Bond.

[2] The design has elements representing Latter-day Saint symbolism to provide deeper spiritual meaning to its appearance and function.