1. Mission San Xavier del Bac is a historic Catholic church located about 10 miles south of Phoenix, Arizona. It was founded by the Jesuit priest Eusebio Kino in the late 17th century, and the current church was built in the late 18th century by the Franciscans. The church is renowned for its ornate architecture and design, which combine elements of Spanish Baroque, Native American, and Mexican styles. It is often referred to as the \"White Dove of the Desert\" due to its picturesque appearance.
Other interesting facts about Mission San Xavier del Bac include:
- The church is still an active Catholic parish and offers regular services to the local community.
- The church underwent a major restoration project in the 1990s to repair damage from water infiltration and aging.
- The interior of the church features many beautiful murals and frescoes, including depictions of saints, angels, and biblical scenes.
- The church is a popular tourist destination and attracts visitors from all over the world.
2. The church is open to visitors daily from 7am-5pm (except for special holidays). The phone number for the church is (520) 294-2624.
3. There is no admission fee to enter the church, but donations are accepted. There is ample parking available in a nearby lot. Visitors can reach the church via car or taxi, as there is no public transportation directly to the site.