Mission San Xavier has inspired countless people across centuries since its foundations were laid in 1783.
This National Historic Landmark is a premier example of Mexican Baroque architecture and along with the majestic saguaro, is one of the most recognized icons in Arizona.
Today, this active Mission remains a working parish and the spiritual home for many Southern Arizonans. Host to tens of thousands of visitors annually from around the world, in October 2015, the Mission was named to the global World Monuments Fund “Watch” list that includes 50 cultural heritage sites in 36 countries that are at risk from the forces of nature and the impact of social, political and economic change.
Nonprofit Patronato San Xavier was founded by Southern Arizona community leaders in 1978 as a vehicle for preserving and restoring the Mission. With 80 percent of the main building completed, Patronato continues to raise critical funds for the restoration, maintenance and preservation of Mission San Xavier.
Patronato News
- “Tucson’s San Xavier del Bac an enduring symbol of borderlands history” from the Tampa Bay Times “…I lived in Tucson for a decade and visited San Xavier often, drawn by its cultural significance, its beauty and its air of timeless calm…” Read more »
- Need a Good Speaker? Would your service club or organization like to hear about the Mission and Patronato’s effort to restore and preserve it? Read more »
- The new 1783 Society offers a way to make a difference, forever. Generous people are choosing to leave a gift to Patronato in their wills to ensure the future of the Mission. Read more »
- Restoration Update After two seasons of work, the cleaning and restoration of the Retablo Mayor is complete. Next: the ornate balustrades that surround the main altar. Read more »