Yesterday, Mark, Zane and I paid a visit to two of the Arizona missions founded by Jesuit Padre E. F. Kino in the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Distinct in many ways, both are within easy reach of Tucson and made for a terrific afternoon of exploration. It helped that the weather was perfect.
First up was San Javier del Bac, which I never tire of visiting. Even before the interior restoration was completed a few years ago, it was easy to see why this place has been nicknamed the white dove of the desert. (Many more pictures at Flickr.)
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Next we traveled a further 25 kms toward Mexico and visited Tumacacori. This mission site is now a U.S. National Park. The church was destroyed by misuse and looters during the 19th century, but the shell has been preserved, as have the mission grounds. Zane enjoyed the scavenger hunt and was awarded a Junior Ranger certificate and badge upon its successful completion. (More pictures here.)
Wow, it looks so secluded!! Nice pictures of the mission and the men! xo, r
Posted by: Robert | January 09, 2009 at 01:53 AM