SAN ANTONIO -- It was a two-day visit with a mission to strengthen ties and to celebrate history.

"Indeed a historic celebration is what brought us to San Antonio, precisely today, but our visit gazes at the future as well," said the King of Spain Felipe VI.

On Sunday, the King and Queen paid tribute to Spanish roots by visiting historical landmarks and speaking with local and state leaders.

"San Antonio is indeed a welcoming and generous city to all those who come looking for a better future," the King said.

Another highlight of the royal visit is a look right inside our own San Antonio Museum of Art. A new exhibit features Spanish masters. Some of the paintings have never been seen here in the U.S.

Monday's agenda featured a bit of the past with a face forward for the future.

The goal of the visit was to strengthen economic, cultural and educational ties between San Antonio and Spain - all while celebrating the Alamo City's Tricentennial.

One of the last stops was a meeting between leaders of the Fundación Carolina of Spain and the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

"It's great that he and the Queen, his wife, are taking the time to come out, and spending about four hours with us to share and exchange ideas and experiences," said Jerry Godwin with the U.S. Small Business Administration.

Ideas for education, trade, business and sciences mark the foundation for building a future, while embracing the past.

"Today it seems evident to us that San Antonio has not wasted its time. Its past strengths are always there for us to see and they have also diversified as the city has become more modern, more international, a real powerhouse," the King said.