Background

Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi: Echoes of the Past

Discover the historic Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi near Nogales, Arizona, where Spanish colonial past meets Native American heritage.

4.5

Explore the ruins of Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi, a 17th-century Spanish mission near Nogales, Arizona. Founded by Jesuit missionaries, this historical landmark offers a glimpse into the region's colonial past and the interactions between Spanish settlers and indigenous O'odham people.

A brief summary to Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (January-March) when guided tours are typically available by reservation.
  • Bring water and sun protection, as the site offers limited shade.
  • Check the Tumacácori National Historical Park website or call ahead for current accessibility and tour information.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    From Nogales, head north on I-19. Take Exit 12 for AZ-82 East toward Patagonia. Continue on AZ-82 East, then turn left onto the road leading to the Guevavi Historic Site. Follow the signs to the mission ruins. There is no entrance fee.

  • Public Transportation

    Take a bus from Nogales to Tucson. From Tucson, consider renting a car or using a rideshare service to reach the mission, as public transportation directly to the site is limited. The drive from Tucson is approximately 1.5 hours. Bus fare from Nogales to Tucson is approximately $21-$23.

Unlock the Best of Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi, nestled in the serene landscape near Nogales, Arizona, whispers tales of cultural exchange and resilience. Founded in 1691 by Jesuit Fathers Eusebio Kino and Juan María de Salvatierra, the mission began as La Misión de San Gabriel de Guevavi, serving as a district headquarters in what was then known as the Pimería Alta region of New Spain. The name 'Guevavi' itself is derived from the O'odham word for 'big spring' or 'big well,' reflecting the area's significance to the native people. Over the years, the mission saw periods of growth and hardship. Early structures included a church, carpentry shop, and blacksmith area. In 1701, Pima laborers constructed a small adobe chapel under Jesuit guidance. The mission served as a central point for the Jesuits, but was attacked by Apaches in 1769, which led to its abandonment. The ruins that remain today are primarily from a later church built around 1751. The site also holds the remains of Captain Juan Tómas de Beldarrain and the mother of Juan Bautista de Anza, buried beneath the altar. Today, the ruins are part of the Tumacácori National Historical Park, offering visitors a chance to step back in time and connect with the layers of history embedded in the landscape. While exploring the site, take a moment to appreciate the blend of cultures and the stories of those who shaped this corner of the Southwest.

Popular Experiences near Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Popular Hotels near Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Select Currency