Mission San Xavier del Bac, Spanish Catholic mission in Tucson, United States
Mission San Xavier del Bac is a Catholic mission station in the Sonoran Desert south of Tucson in Arizona. The white stucco building rises with two towers, displaying Moorish-influenced architectural elements and fine decorative work across its facade and bell towers.
Padre Eusebio Kino founded the mission in 1692 and construction of the present church began after Apache raids in the late 18th century. The structure was built between 1783 and 1797 and stands today as a witness to Spanish colonial times.
The interior combines Spanish colonial and Native American artistic elements, with murals and sculptures created by O'odham craftsmen reflecting their interpretation of Catholic imagery.
The church opens daily and visitors can explore the interior freely as well as view the small museum area. Regular Catholic services take place and photography is allowed inside with respect for worshippers.
The building sits within the Tohono O'odham Nation reservation and continues to serve its original religious purpose as an active parish church. The eastern tower remained unfinished and carries no dome while the western one displays the characteristic cap.
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