San Xavier del Bac Mission
HIGHLIGHTS
The oldest European structure in Arizona. Must see for architecture lovers.
THE BEST EXAMPLE OF SPANISH MISSION ARCHITECTURE IN THE US
Unschooling the kids for a week at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum led to including the San Xavier del Bac Mission in the week’s itinerary. Bobby’s background working with internationally acclaimed design firm, Bigtime Design Studios, made it another must see for us. And, coming from South Florida, we take any opportunity to visit places of historical significance on our travels.
To put it simply, the San Xavier is a stunning example of Spanish Mission architecture. Currently, it is undergoing renovation and scaffolding is visible on the right side of the building but it hardly detracts from the beauty of the mission.
After our visit, Lucio & Peach took the opportunity to research and learn about the history of the mission and create art depicting the iconic architecture. Below are ten cool facts about the mission according to the kids:
10 FUN FACTS ABOUT SAN XAVIER MISSION BY LUCIO & PEACH
- The local tribe is called the Tohono O’odham.
- The original mission was founded by Father Eusebio Kino, a Jesuit missionary, in 1687.
- The mission was built by the Spanish and O’odaham.
- It is located in Tucson, Arizona.
- It was made to learn about and worship God.
- On average, 200,000 people visit the mission every year.
- The Apache attacked the mission multiple times.
- The nickname of the mission is “The White Dove of the Desert.”
- The exterior is covered in stucco.
- The Mexican government banned all Spanish-born priests in 1837.
For more about San Xavier del Bac visit their website and consider supporting the mission with a donation.