Just south of Tucson is the stunning, yet often overlooked San Xavier del Bac Mission. "The White Dove of the Desert" is a jewel among missions in the Desert Southwest. Known for its beautiful lines outside and amazing detail inside, the church is in the process of restoration and preservation that is an ongoing project, the interior alone taking 6 years--finishing in 1997.
Likeness of St. Francis--Patron Saint of San Xavier
The exterior is still undergoing restoration, as evidenced by the difference between the two towers shown below:
Although restoration is ongoing, the church is still active--holding regular services. The mission is open 7 days a week, free of charge, but donations are appreciated.
To learn more about the San Xavier del Bac Mission, visit their website.
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All original material written by Kent Simpson unless attributed to source.©2011, 2010, 2009,2008,2007
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Kent, it is certainly an impressive building. It looks like quite a worthwhile project to refurbish!
Looks like a beautiful place, nice pictures.
All the best!
These are lovely photos. Thanks for sharing. Looks like a good place to go visit.
I remember visiting San Xavier del Bac when I lived in Tucson back in the 1980s. I worked with the Tucson Symphony then and we performed and taught at the Mission school nearby.
What a lovely place!
Yes, it is a beautiful place. Haven't been there for years, but it was always on the circuit when relatives visited way back when. Nice photos, too.
Kent,
This is one of my favorite haunts. The United States doesn't have much in the way of ancient architecture, but this chapel, going back to the 1700s, will do for me.
Mike in Tucson
Tony & Darcy
It sure is impressive--especially compared to the austere nature of the immediate area. Thanks for stopping by.
Kevin, Bob & Carolyn, Doreen
Thanks for the comments--I wish some of the other photos turned out, but perhaps the next visit.
Eric
Do you still play?
Mike
One of the things I love about the Desert Southwest is the ancient architecture going back to the 1700s, 1500s and even further--have you been to Taos or Acoma Pueblos in New Mexico?
I realized just the other day that I have never seen this Arizona landmark. That's like living in San Antonio and not visiting the Alamo (which I did over a two year period).
Howdy Kent
That is a really fine looking mission, for sure.
Chuck - isn't it amazing how many wonders there are yet to discover...even with a lifetime of living in an area?
Dale - thanks for stopping by, buddy!
Kent, the photos are amazing...thanks for sharing these with us. Great post.
Thanks for the kind words, Gary - just a cheapo Kodak digital...the credit goes to the folks at the Mission who restored it so well!
Kent - Great photos on an interesting subject. Thank goodness these historical treasures are being perserved.
Kent,
Very cool! Thanks for commenting on my post and leaving a link.
Mike in Tucson
Robin - thanks! I love the history of our region.
Mike - you inspire me even when you don't know it!
Thanks for the inside shots it is just as grand inside as out.