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Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi: Echoes of the Past

Discover the historic ruins of Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi near Nogales, Arizona, a window into the Spanish colonial era and early mission life.

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Explore the ruins of Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi, a former Spanish mission near Tumacácori, Arizona. Founded in 1691 by Jesuit priests, it stands as a testament to early Spanish colonization and the interactions with the local O'odham people. Discover the remnants of the church and envision life in this remote outpost.

A brief summary to Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Local tips

  • Visit during the cooler months (January-March) for a more comfortable experience, especially if you plan to walk the grounds.
  • Check the Tumacácori National Historical Park website for information on guided tours to Guevavi, typically offered during winter.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited facilities available at the mission site.
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Getting There

  • Driving

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

  • Public Transportation

    Take a bus from Nogales to Tucson. From Tucson, rent a car or use a rideshare service to reach Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi. The drive from Tucson takes about 1.5 hours. Check local bus schedules and availability, as services may vary. Once you arrive in Nogales, follow the driving directions provided for car travelers. Bus fare from Nogales to Tucson is approximately $20-$40. Rideshare from Tucson to Guevavi is approximately $75-$100.

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Discover more about Mission los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi

Mission Los Santos Ángeles de Guevavi, or the Mission of Saint Gabriel of the Big Spring, whispers tales of Arizona's colonial past. Founded in 1691 by Jesuit missionaries Eusebio Kino and Juan María de Salvatierra, the mission was first known as La Misión de San Gabriel de Guevavi. Later missionaries renamed it San Rafael and San Miguel, leading to its current name. The name 'Guevavi' comes from the O'odham word for 'big spring' or 'big well'. Originally an O'odham settlement visited by Father Kino in 1690, Guevavi became a Jesuit district headquarters, serving as a central base for their missionary work. The first resident priest, Juan de San Martín, arrived in 1701, and a small church was built. Over the years, Pima laborers constructed a church, carpentry shop, and blacksmith area under Jesuit supervision. In 1751, a larger church was constructed under the direction of Joaquín de Casares. Though damaged during the Pima uprising, it was later repaired. The mission faced numerous challenges, including Apache raids, disease, and the expulsion of the Jesuits in 1767, leading to its eventual abandonment around 1775. Today, the ruins are part of Tumacácori National Historical Park, offering visitors a glimpse into a bygone era. Guided tours are available during certain months.

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