San Xavier Del Bac Mission

This is a jewel in the desert and well worth visiting. Make sue to spend enough time to see the church, the gardens, climb the hill if you can and see the entire area and do not forget to visit the shops for great indian jewelry at a fair price with no sales tax. They have food vendors and you can drive through the tribal area, make sure to bring water. The church has restrooms and water coolers and the Prairie dogs are a real bonus. We will visit this evertime we visit Tucson.

What a wonderful place! Great example of Spanish Colonial architecture. The mission itself offers a video presentation of the restoration project which is fascinating as the Vatican has sent their own restoration team. When we went, there was a sign in front stating that the church area would be closed for one hour as a funeral was in progress. We found other areas to explore for a full 2 hours (the funeral ran long) Many areas to keep adults busy. There is not much to occupy the interest of young children though unless of course they enjoy religious history and architecture from the 1600’s. There are tours available, check the website for info.
**Tip: There are folks selling Indian Fry Bread Tacos in the parking lot and this is a wonderful treat! It was the best taco I have ever experienced and all for 6 bucks! It’s HUGE! You can’t go wrong whichever booth you choose for your taco purchase.

San Xavier Del Bac is called «the White Dove of the Desert.» It was founded in 1692 by the Jesuit father Eusebio Kino. It’s baroque splendor in the midst of the stark Arizona desert. In an otherwise stark, bleak desert, it’s a splendid church with an ornamental interior. It’s quite a contrast with the simpler Franciscan missions of California.
Its baroque interior is surreal and beautiful. One of the steeples remains unfinished. It’s a beautiful part of Tucson, filled with history. In the Grand Canyon state, it’s truly grand.

Great place to come visit. It’s a beautiful building, and while not my personal taste in design and interior decoration, the historical value of
interesting.
Make sure you get a tour. Totally worth it if your want to learn anything. Our guide was great. Very informative and respectful, however that was also problematic as I could only hear half of what was being said, so I’m sure I’ve got the saints all jumbled up and I’m pretty certain that he didn’t say the protein saint of taco bell… But I. couldn’t tell, and I’m not good at reading lips.
We did light a candle, which I tried to do as responsibly and respectfully as one could being forced to do so. (Sister in law) but I guess I felt like I was wishing on a shooting star, or along Santa for something, not because of no faith, but it just seems kinda superficial, especially since Im not part of the religion, but to each their own. I would pad on that part again, and maybe if I would have put it on front of Saint jude or someone other than the protein saint of taco bell, it would have been better… I. don’t know the rules.
Either way. Ill skip the candle lighting next time, and leave that to the believers. Not mocking. Just feels irreverent to do when I don’t personally have affiliation. I would like to take more time to look at the architecture and sculptures. There is a great video tucked away about the restoration, which is fascinating. Check it out of you have time.
This is totally worth a stop. Grab some of the fry bread as you leave. Delicious. Sad I didn’t get more. Beautiful place teeming with history!

This historical mission is absolutely beautiful. I’ve heard of this place before but never had a chance to stop by here until now. If you are in Tucson and have extra 1 hour or so, I highly recommend stopping by here. Be sure to read about the history prior to your visit to fully appreciate the construction and architecture of this building.
They sell indian fried bread at the parking area and I was told they are the best, unfortunately I was too full from lunch and didn’t get a chance to do so but it was highly recommended by my friends.
It was only 10 – 15 mins drive from the downtown, enjoy the oldest European structure in Arizona without actually traveling to Europe.

I don’t know why you would give this place a bad review. There is nothing wrong with it. I am not the biggest fan of going to churches but I am extremely enthralled by anything old world. This place was built in the 1700’s and it’s really hard to pass on something like that. The area is like stepping into the wild west. The desert sand blowing around in the wind with a catholic mission is off in the distance surrounded by a variety of cacti. There are also what I assume to be native american vendors selling an array of flatbreads which I didn’t have the pleasure of trying (because it was the week of thanksgiving and I was perpetually full the entire time) but it did smell good. The inside of the main church was very narrow but the ceilings were a lot taller than I expected. The details in the… everything was so meticulous. Buttresses for days. So much color everywhere. It was a building of old world art (wondering if any of the money went to more charitable endeavors. Not judging just observing). One of the fascinating things to look for were some areas that showed the original walls and floors. To the side of the main church was an alter full of statues and candles. Prepare yourself because there isn’t any ventilation in this alter area and the candles create a lot of heat. But overall this place is really great and its not far from the city (about 8 miles). Its a really good place to not only support the people that live on the reservation but also to get a glimpse of history.

This historical mission is absolutely gorgeous. It continues to function as an active Roman Catholic Church, and it looks like there is a school associated with it as well.
There is a (very) small museum that was pretty disappointing. According to the woman at the front desk, two of the rooms were closed at the time due to their renovation project, so that might be more interesting when they open again. That being said, «Californication» was playing in the background of one of the museum rooms, and that didn’t exactly inspire the ambiance I would think they are going for. They also had an interesting film about a portion of the renovation that had already finished in another room; though the sign stated it was 25 minutes long, it felt more like 5 – 10 minutes in length.
The gift shop was pretty nice, and my husband and I picked up a Christmas ornament to commemorate our trip.
We also walked up the small hill next to the mission, and it offered some nice views of the surrounding area.
The inside of the church is full of artwork and statues. Unfortunately, we couldn’t get a good view of the section behind the altar due to an ongoing restoration project that had scaffolding up to the ceiling, but there were alcoves to their side that were beautiful to look at. You can purchase non-​smoking devotional candles from the gift shop if you want to leave one in the building, but they do not permit outside candles in the hopes to better preserve the inside of the building for the future.
This place is worth a visit. The first look as you drive up of the stark white building against the natural backdrop will take your breath away, and there are so many things to look at architecturally that anyone can appreciate, not just those associated with the Catholic faith.

A beautiful church with gorgeous surroundings. Make sure you climb the mound to see the grotto. There is also a museum and little shops. I loved the story of the man in the maze. Make sure you try the fried bread. I was a huge fan of the cinnamon sugar one!

Well I am always a little mixed knowing how the poor people slaved away to help build these big, huge monstrosities. yeah, I’m going to hell. I was in a Catholic seminary so I know how this organization works from the inside … very self-​serving. Anyways …
This is a great photo op. Lots of neat angles. The white bldg vs the blue AZ sky is wonderful. Full Moon rising or sun setting make for some really special shots.
It is a pretty quick tour as you have limited access and there is nothing else around.
Yes you can buy some fry bread in the parking lot, no clue how I resisted.
If you are driving South head to the Presidio in Tubac and the Tumacacori Mission a bit lower.
Madera Canyon off to the East a tish is fun hiking area for AZ.
Have fun, take lots of photos …

Stunning mission including small grounds and an immaculate, fully renovated chapel with extensive carved and painted woodwork. Like many missions, there is no entrance fee, but there is a donation box. Outside the mission you may be lucky enough to find Indian fry bread. When I visited, no such luck :/​Since it is not too isolated, seems like a no-​brainer to put this on your itinerary.

If you are visiting Tucson, Arizona — this is a must! It is the quintessential «Southwestern Catholic Mission.» This mission was founded before the United States was a nation! Tons of history and a great museum. Bring a camera!

If you enjoy looking at missions, this is one not to miss. It has mostly been restored and the inside and outside of this building are absolutely beautiful. There is artwork on the walls and the ceilings … again, so beautiful.
There is no admission charge. Don’t forget to walk up the hill for another great view.

Every mission I had been to has it’s own characters. this one no exception. This is a MUST visit when you are in Tucson.
Off 19 fwy you will see the building of mission from far away. def not easy to miss.
There are few vendors outside the mission, I stopped at the first one and tried the plain Indian fry bread for $ 2.5. (This is what everyone rave about). You can also get it with sweet, cheese, beans or chili…
It was a huge piece that’s bigger than my face… and just simply delicious.
First I went to the museum, the museum entrance is on the right side, it was small, only like 5 small exhibition rooms so I was kind disappointed. There was a small tv showing how they did the renovation project. Half courtyard is under renovation as well so not open to public. (this part probably only takes you 20 mins or less to finish)
Then I went to the church where still hold the mass. The inside is amazing with all the delicate painting. You got to see it yourself.
Grotto Hill on the right side of mission with a big cross on top, I didn’t get to walk up but the view up there probably really nice.
Tip:
Tons of parking.
Free admission.
try the Indian fry bread, delicious.
MUSEUM HOURS:
8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
CHURCH HOURS:
7 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday

This is the best mission/​church to visit in the area. Easy access from Tuscon and surrounding area. We took a guided tour and that’s really the best way to get the most out of your visit, You get to see all the main areas, get explanations of what you see, etc. It’s so amazing that this place has been around for more than 300 years and the «front» door is original. The inside is truly beautiful and a must see.
If you have missions on your schedule and can only see one, this is the one to go to. Kids may not appreciate it as much as adults.
There are some vendors that set up in the picnic area in front. I was really tempted and wish I had tried them out. Just wasn’t quite lunch time.

–Really cool place to be.
–Absolutely beautiful.
–Excellent frybread! Best I’ve ever had! And good price too! $ 3
–Amazing history
–Free!!!
Bottom line:
great place to visit if you’re in Tucson. if I was in Tucson again, I would try to visit here again.

A beautiful mission in the middle of the field.
I’ve been many missions in CA, though this one topped every other missions I went.
Worth to visit, when you are in Tucson area.
The wall paintings inside, altar, chairs, everything’s unbelievably well kept
and stunningly beautiful.
Tried fry bread across the mission, was tasty.

This is a stunning, must-​see, landmark church in Arizona. It might be the oldest non-​Native American structure in the State… (I’m not 100% sure about that, but I’m guessing it is either the oldest or very close. It dates to the 1700’s)
If you are looking for a unique experience, a spiritual refreshment, or you just enjoy beautiful art and historical sights then you must come see San Xavier del Bac. There is no charge to visit it, but donations towards restorations are always graciously welcomed.
If you happen to visit when mass is in session, don’t be a cad, refrain from interrupting the service, and please do not take any photographs or video during the mass… After it’s over, you can take all the photographs you’d like.
Also, if you come, have some cash handy to get a delicious slab of fry bread from the friendly fry bread vendors stations outside the church parking lot.

San Xavier Del Bac Mission (SXDB) is a nice little piece of Arizona History. Originally founded in 1692 as a Catholic Mission by Father Eusebio Kino. The current building construction began in 1783 and was completed in 1797. Nicknamed «The White Dove of the Desert» because of it’s white limestone façade, the original constructors and artisans are unknown to historians – but it’s widely believed that the Native Americans of the area did most of the work. SXDB is a fun little historical detour if you happen to be in the Tuscon area on a road trip. I saw it on my last trip to Tuscon 5-​years ago, but at the time the West Tower was covered in scaffolding and tarps due to a restoration effort. I was curious what the end result was, and decided to make a quick detour. Here’s a brief list of what to see/​do there:
–Check out what’s widely believed to be the finest example of Spanish Colonial architecture in the US. It’s very cool and their restoration of the West Tower looks great.
–The interior is fascinating with all the old paintings, sculptures and wonderful architecture. I didn’t get to see it this time because there was mass in session, but I’m sure it hasn’t changed from 5-​years ago.
–My personal favorite part of the SXDB is the Native Americans out front selling their Fry Bread. «Sacrilege!,» you say? This is Unilocal,right? I’m all about the food, baby! I highly recommend the Cinnamon-​Sugar or Honey, but they also have savory flavors (e.g., Chile, Beans, etc) as well.
SXDB is only 9-​miles South of Tuscon and the whole thing can be seen in less than 1-​hour, and is well worth the time – regardless of your religious beliefs. There’s also a decent restroom on site as well, so it’s good for that as well. Recommended.

San Xavier Mission was one of the first places my parents took us to when we moved to Tucson. Growing up in California, I’d visited several missions already, so my grumpy teenaged self viewed San Xavier as just another boring old church. Back then, the highlight of the trip was getting an order of Indian fry bread.
Visiting it now, I have the urge to travel back in time and pay my grumpy teenager self a visit and kick dirt at her.
San Xavier is absolutely majestic. The structure itself is clearly old Spanish architecture, and the surrounding Sonoran desert provides a stunning backdrop to the mission. The inside is rather unexpected — a conglomeration of rustic Spanish and classic Baroque, which somehow blends harmoniously. Gregorian chants were playing softly in the background. The walls and ceilings are adorned with colorful paintings and embellishments, and the beautifully crafted saints and angels seem to be telling a story. There are restorations currently underway, and some decay is evident, but this in no way detracts from its beauty. A few quiet moments inside, you are sure to feel a spiritual connection, no matter what your faith may be.
How lucky we Tucsonans are to have such stunning, rich history right in our back yards.

San Xaxier Mission Del Bac is beautiful! The high ceilings, well maintain religious figures, and paintings all make it so breath taking.
I highly recommend bringing visiting family here (if they’re into history/​religious artifacts, of course!)
They also have a small gift shop that I recommend checking out! Their prices are very reasonable. I purchased a container to place holy water in for $ 2.
This will be one of the places we’ll bring visiting family from now on…

Wir waren enttäuscht — vielleicht war auch die Erwartungshaltung zu hoch. In allen Führern der Region wird diese Missionskirche als die am besten erhaltene in den USA beschrieben und ein Besuch unbedingt empfohlen.
Wir folgten dem Rat. Um 1700 gründeten hier die Jesuiten eine Missionsstation, bereits 1797 wurde die heutige Kirche erbaut. Seit 1960 ist sie ein National Historic Landmark. Für amerikanische Verhältnisse mag diese weiß leuchtende Kirche etwas Besonderes sein. Wir Europäer jedoch haben derartig viele, beeindruckende historische Kirchen, dass man gar nicht umhin kann, Vergleiche anzustellen. Fairerweise muss man jedoch die geschichtlichen Verhältnisse hier im Südwesten der USA im 18. Jhdt. berücksichtigen, um diesen Bau zu würdigen.
An Sonntagen ist die Kirche für Besucher nicht zugänglich, sie wird dann für Gottesdienste genutzt. An allen anderen Tagen ist der Zugang kostenfrei. Und ein Tummelplatz für Touristen, so wie wir. Ein sehr großer Parkplatz belegt die regelmäßige Besucherfrequenz.
In einem kleinen Museum erfährt man etwas über die Geschichte des Platzes. Von einem Hügel direkt neben der Mission hat man einen schönen Blick auf die Kirche von oben. Gegenüber dem Haupteingang der Kirche mehrere kleine Läden im Quaree mit einem ruhigen Innenhof. Am Parkplatz Stände, an denen Indianer ihre handgefertigten Waren feilbieten: Ketten, Ringe, Schmuckstücke, Taschen etc.
Die Missionskirche San Xavier del Bac liegt nur 10 Meilen südlich von Tucson. Es ist also von dort aus kein Aufwand für einen Besuch. Geschichtlich ein interessanter Platz, optisch weniger. Drei — allerdings gute — Sterne.