Tuesday, March 6 PART II - A few miles north of the Titan Missile Museum is the Mission San Xavier.
A National Historic Landmark, San Xavier was founded as a Catholic mission by Father Eusebio Kino in 1692. Construction of the current church was begun in 1783. Notice the right tower remains unfinished even today. Our guide said of all the theories, the reason is lack of money.
The oldest intact European structure in Arizona, the church's interior is filled with marvelous original statuary and mural paintings.
Doorways were beautiful.
Stairs were a bit tight.
Altar
Alcove
Beautiful ceilings
Visitors step back in time and enter an authentic 18th Century mission. The church retains its original purpose of ministering to the religious needs of its parishioners with daily services and three services on Sunday. It should be noted that the Mission is on the Indian Reservation and is considered an Indian Church. Indian Culture and Traditions are respected and tourists are asked to take this into consideration.
Even though the Church was built for the Indians, by the Indians on an Indian reservation, this is the only tribute to them. 
There is no admission charge to visit Mission San Xavier. Some 200,000 visitors come each year from all over the world to view what is widely considered to be the finest example of Spanish Colonial architecture in the United States.
Looking towards the back of the Church.
Our tour guide did an exceptional job describing the historic significance of the structure, statues, paintings, and religious significance of the Mission. This is a very beautiful Mission Church and another wonderful tour we would recommend.
Thanks for stopping by. Hope to see y'all back real soon. Have a great day!
