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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