San Xavier del Bac Mission - Tucson, Arizona

Kaylin

TLDR: I am not Catholic, but have visited various cathedrals, churches and missions and this is one of the most interesting I’ve ever been to.

“Founded by Padre Kino in 1692 and completed in 1797, San Xavier del Bac Mission is Arizona’s oldest European structure and a masterpiece of Spanish Colonial architecture.” - stolen from the website 😎.

I’m always blown away by the artistry and commitment to detail ensconced in the decoration of religious places of worship, and the beauty of the San Xavier del Bac Mission is no exception. You really have to visit to take it all in.

The staff is welcoming, and there is a gift shop where I picked up a handmade (I think) souvenir ornament and some DELICIOUS prickly pear gummy bears. Seriously, they were really good and I haven’t seen them anywhere since that visit.

Austin P.

Absolutely gorgeous church. There is no entrance fee for the interior or museum portion of the church, but they do accept donations. Has a gift shop as well as adjacent shopping plaza with other handmade trinkets.

It is important to note though that this is a functioning church, and should be treated as such. Show proper respect and decorum when visiting.

Irina O.

San Xavier del Bac Mission is an absolutely beautiful and peaceful place—definitely worth a visit if you’re in Tucson. We stopped by on our way to New Mexico and were so glad we did. Since many places close early, this was the perfect option to explore in the late afternoon. The architecture is stunning, and it’s amazing to see how well-preserved the original 16th-century design is. The details inside and out are breathtaking. Highly recommend making time for this historic gem!

Jenevieve H.

Beautiful church, unfortunately we weren’t able to go inside when we were there but it’s stunning from the outside as well. Neat place with history told in little museum rooms. Also fun to visit while reading Death Comes for the Archbishop by Willa Cather

Audrey K.

I highly recommend stopping here. It is beautiful. I can't believe what they were able to do when it was constructed so long ago in the middle of nowhere. Beautiful courtyard. Lots of neat shops across from the mission. Beautiful jewelry and other trinkets. Everyone was so friendly. We were there on a Sunday, and food vendors were set up. It was such a tasty treat to have authentic Navajo fry bread (with cinnamon and honey). It brought back memories from 41 years ago.
You'll probably meet the reservation community dogs, too.

Debbie R.

We’ve been many times. But it’s always inspiring each time we see it. There’s a gift shop that sells crosses, rosary beads, items related to Arizona. We purchased 2 candles to light for our loved one to leave in the church. You can also purchase a little plastic container to fill up with holy water, or take your own. The museum was open this time we went. Since on Indian Reservation, you can buy Indian fry bread. They make it right in front of you.

Echo K.

This is another one of those must see stops whenever you’re in the Tucson area. Very easy to get to, and a truly breathtaking experience. We’re comfortable shoes and be prepared to walk a little bit around the grounds, there is a small hill on the property with a perimeter road you can walk on and get some excellent views of the mission and surrounding area. It’s amazing to think that this mission was started in 1692, a real testament to the faith of those who sacrifice to build it. I have visited here many times and over the years it’s always been at some level of renovation. So don’t be surprised to see some scaffolding and some unfinished areas, butthis does not at all to detract from the our inspiring nature of this place.

PL

The church buildings stand out even from a distance as you approach. Up close, they are stunning, with ornate interiors. Next to the church, there is a museum that showcases its history. It was a wonderful visit.