Friday, August 5, 2016

Tucson's Mission Xavier del Bac: White Dove of the Desert


Mission San Xavier del Bac just south of Tucson, Arizona is often called "The White Dove of the Desert." The mission does seem to rise in stark white glory from the desert sands of the Tohono O'odham  Reservation. It is an amazing sight. 

The San Xavier Mission was founded as a Catholic mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the current church began in 1783 and was completed in 1797. It is said that the mission is the oldest intact European structure in Arizona.  Inside the church you can see original statuary and paintings.  It is a place where visitors can truly step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century space.

This is a beautifully restored Mission church.  San Xavier Mission is acclaimed by many to be the finest example of mission architecture in the United States. The white church has domes, towers and spires. It is amazingly graceful and beautiful. Don't forget your camera as the mission is beautiful to photograph in the light of morning, noon and evening.

The mission still serves as an active Catholic church. And, the restoration continues to save and maintain this beautiful building.

When You Go
Hours: The mission church opens 7:00 AM and closes at 5:00 PM each day. When there is no service, docents lead tours.
Location: 1950 W. San Xavier Road, San Xavier District off Interstate 19 South. This is about nine miles south of Tucson.
Admission- Parking is Free. Donations are appreciated. Often there will be vendors selling food and craft items.

More Information: San Xavier del Bac Website

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