It is a beautiful, old sparkling white church that attracts you even from afar. It is the 17th-century San Xavier del Bac Church in Tucson, Arizona. This immaculate white Mission mixes European, Mexican and Native American styles in its overall appearance and feel. Seeing this beautiful edifice in the middle of a desert is impressive, to say the least.

San Xavier del Bac is a historic mission church located on the Tohono O’odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation. It was founded in 1692 by the Jesuit missionary, Father Eusebio Kino, and is considered one of the finest examples of Spanish colonial architecture in the United States.

The church is also known as the White Dove of the Desert, due to its striking white stucco exterior and prominent location in the Sonoran Desert landscape. The interior of the church is equally impressive, with ornate frescoes, murals, and sculptures that date back to the late 18th century.

The church was built using traditional Spanish colonial methods, including adobe bricks, hand-hewn timbers, and plaster made from local materials. The church was also heavily influenced by indigenous Tohono O’odham culture, with many of the decorative elements incorporating traditional symbols and motifs.

The church underwent a major restoration project in the late 20th century, which restored much of the building’s original beauty and helped to preserve it for future generations. The restoration also included the installation of a new organ and the creation of a museum that showcases the history and cultural significance of the church and the Tohono O’odham Nation.

San Xavier del Bac is still an active church and serves as an important religious and cultural center for the Tohono O’odham Nation and the wider community. The church hosts regular masses, weddings, and other religious ceremonies, and is open to visitors for self-guided tours.

Admire the inside.

The inside feels like being inside a big cathedral. Many of the statues are carved from wood and artfully painted.

Telling the story.

There is a museum that will give you a glimpse into the history of the church and those people who lived in the Sonoran Desert.

The building is amazing with its shrines and chapels.

Chapels are dedicated to religious martyrs.

Food and souvenirs in front.

If you visit on weekends, there are all types of vendors at the huge open space in front of the church.

Take a short walk.

To the right side of the church is little hill where you can hike and see a little memorial shrine.

A view from the back of the church.

I did enjoy my visit. The church is still an active place of worship. However, Catholic or not, religious or not, the Mission San Xavier del Bac is something not to miss in Tucson. From downtown Tucson, it is just a 20-minute drive.

Address: 1950 W. San Xavier Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746
Phone Number: 520-294-2624
Entrance and Admission Fee: FREE
Parking Location: Vast space in front of the church

Hours the Mission Church is open to the public: 7:00 am – 5:00 pm daily (The Mission church will be unavailable at certain times because of special services.)

Where to stay.

Find your hotel accommodation using this link: Find the Best Deals at hotels.com!

Find your way.

See also: My other travel adventures.