Another beautiful day and another adventure. Took Derek's bicycle to a bicycle shop to have it looked out (sounds a bit 'cranky') and then took of to see the Mission San Xavier Del Bac, located just SW of the city out in the desert. This mission was built in the early 1700's by a Jesuit priest (Fr. Kino), but was not completed. Later in the century it was taken over by Spanish Franciscans and they completed the building (but never quite finished - see unfinished tower) It was originally meant a teaching mission to convert the local native Indian tribes to Christianity. It is now a working catholic church with an active parish, and runs free tours every day. We joined a tour and were quite fascinated with the history of all the renovations that have taken place over the years, all were aimed at returning the Mission to it's original condition (including the unfinished tower). After the tour we wandered the outisde area and bought an Indian (native) fried bread... it is a plaible dough they deep fry for about 20 seconds... and then put honey or cinnamon, or beans or cheese etc on... Derek and I shared one with honey. MMMM good.. but would not want to see the nturitional chart on this one!!  |
| Self explanatory photo - 1894 |
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| Photo - pre 1887... very interesting. |
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| Printed on Sheepskin - used to teach service |
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| Inside the church |
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| Cactus garden in the grounds |
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| Side view from gardens |
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| Enjoying the Indian fried bread from a vendor |
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| Oh Yes.... Definitely a winner!! |
