The Little-Known Church Hiding In Arizona That Is An Absolute Work Of Art

We're blessed in Arizona to be able to visit, admire, reflect, and worship in so many historic and beautiful churches and missions. And if there is one that is not to be missed, it's the San Xavier del Bac Mission, located on the Tohono O'odham Nation San Xavier Indian Reservation, just south of downtown Tucson. It may not be "little-known" to those living in or near Tucson (or the many annual visitors to Tucson), but to everyone else, it's not as popular as other must-see places in Arizona (like the Grand Canyon). Take a look at how beautiful it is, inside and out, and why we love it so much!

Constructed between 1783 and 1797, San Xavier del Bac Mission is considered the oldest European structure in Arizona — and one that bears much to see and admire.

As one of the most historic churches in Arizona it is massive. And the white stucco exterior, coupled with the heavy, carved wooden doors speak to you before you ever enter the sanctuary.

Built with a floor plan of the classic Latin cross, it has a main aisle separated from the sanctuary by the center, which has chapels at either end.

This beautiful mission is open daily when the church is not in use for a service or special occasion.

Adorned with lovely carvings and more, it is considered to be one of the finest examples of Spanish mission architecture in the U.S.

The walls and ceilings are covered with an endless array of colorful paintings, carvings, frescoes, and statues. Don't be surprised if you're overwhelmed with the beauty found in the Mission, and tearfully so.

On either side of the center aisle of the Mission, there are individual chapels, each also adorned with breathtaking artwork.

If you wish to light a candle during your visit, you may, for a nominal donation.

Once you've visited the inside of the Mission and stopped at the museum and the gift shop...

...take an easy hike up Grotto Hill to discover more goodness awaiting along the way and at the top.

Just looking at it brings a sense of awe!

Also be sure to take time to walk the grounds in this beautiful desert landscape.

Now this might be a bit of a shift, but if you’re hungry after visiting the Mission we’ve got a great suggestion!

Located approximately 12 miles northeast, you’ll find one of two locations of one of the best restaurants in Arizona - Café Tumerico.

The food here is nothing short of amazing!

Serving up unique twists on traditional Mexican food, the restaurant motto is “The food feels like home, it's like family.”

The mission is located at 1950 San Xavier Rd., Tucson, AZ 85746. It's open to the public and they have regular in-person and online Masses where everyone is welcome. You can learn more about this beautiful landmark on the San Xavier del Bac Mission website.

Have you ever been to the San Xavier del Bac Mission? If so, what was your favorite part? We'd love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

To learn about one of Arizona's oldest neighborhoods, be sure to read this article about Barrio Historico in Tucson.

If you’d like to explore hikes around the Tucson area, you can find some great trails by going to the AllTrails website.

Still in the mood for more Arizona adventures? Take a look at this video about the beautiful town of Sedona: