Step back in time by visiting San Xavier del Bac. Today's structure was built between 1783-1797 as is the oldest European structure in Arizona.
San Xavier is a historic Spanish Catholic mission located about 10 miles south of downtown Tucson, Arizona. The mission was founded in 1692 by Padre Eusebio Kino in the center of a centuries-old Indian settlement. The mission was named for Francis Xavier, a Christian missionary and co-founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuit Order) in Europe. The original church was built to the north of the present Franciscan church. This northern church or churches served the mission until being razed during an Apache raid in 1770.
Located on the Tohono O'odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation, this beautiful church sometimes called the White Dove of the Desert. The building stands tall, in stark contrast to the flat desert surroundings. The interior is ornate and captivating.
The mission is still a functioning church community. Free tours are offered (when services are not in session). This is well worth the visit!
Read more about the site here.
