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Old Adobe Mission: A Scottsdale Landmark

Discover Scottsdale's oldest church, a historic landmark offering a serene glimpse into the city's cultural and spiritual origins.

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The Old Adobe Mission, originally Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, is the oldest standing church in Scottsdale, Arizona. Built in 1933 by Mexican immigrants, its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and serene atmosphere offer a glimpse into Scottsdale's early history and spiritual heritage.

A brief summary to Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

Local tips

  • Visit during the early hours or late afternoon for a quieter experience and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Check the Mission's website or call ahead for information on special events, services, or tour availability.
  • Explore the surrounding gardens for a peaceful respite.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through Old Town Scottsdale's arts, shopping, and dining districts.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Old Adobe Mission is located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, making it easily accessible on foot from many nearby attractions, hotels, and parking areas. From the Scottsdale Civic Center, walk south on Brown Avenue for approximately 0.2 miles. The Mission will be on your left. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and the area is pedestrian-friendly.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Metro provides bus service to Scottsdale. From Tempe, take the Route 72 bus towards Scottsdale and get off at the 'Scottsdale Rd & Brown Ave' stop. Walk south on Brown Avenue for about 0.2 miles to reach the Mission. A one-way fare on Valley Metro is typically $2. Scottsdale also offers a free trolley service that connects to various points of interest in the city, though it operates only on weekdays. Check the Scottsdale Trolley website for routes and schedules.

  • Ride Share

    Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Scottsdale. Request a ride to 3817 N Brown Ave, Scottsdale, AZ 85251. The cost from nearby areas like Tempe or Phoenix typically ranges from $20-$45, depending on traffic and demand. Be aware that prices may increase during peak hours or special events.

  • Parking

    Free parking is available in the parking structure behind the church and in the parking lot across the street. Free on-street parking can also be found throughout the area. Limited parking may be available directly in front of the Mission. Be aware that a new parking garage is being planned for Old Town Scottsdale, which may impact parking availability in the future.

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Discover more about Old Adobe Mission Scottsdale

The Old Adobe Mission, located in the heart of Old Town Scottsdale, stands as a testament to the faith and cultural heritage of the Mexican immigrants who settled in the area in the early 20th century. Originally named Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) Catholic Church, the mission was completed in 1933. Designed by Robert T. Evans in the Spanish Colonial Revival style, the building's architecture was inspired by churches in Sonora and New Mexico. The mission's construction is a story of community effort and devotion. Over 14,000 adobe bricks, each weighing 50 pounds and made from a mixture of native clay, silt, sand, straw, dung, and water, were handcrafted and laid by members of the community. Grandvell Shumaker provided the blueprints, while Bérnabe Herrera, a local tinsmith, created the fifteen stained-glass panes using discarded glass from St. Augustine's Cathedral in Tucson. The women of the community played a vital role by organizing fundraising events and providing food and encouragement to the workers. In 1949, the mission became a parish, serving the community until 1956 when a larger church was built to accommodate the growing congregation. In 2001, the City of Scottsdale recognized the mission's historical significance by placing it on the Scottsdale Historic Register. Today, the Old Adobe Mission welcomes visitors from all over the world, offering a place for reflection, prayer, and an opportunity to learn about Scottsdale's rich history. The Mission also hosts special events and services.

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