April 16, 2008

Widely regarded as the premier example of Spanish Colonial architecture, San Xavier del Bac is the only church of its kind within the U.S. that is largely intact in its original form.

During the more than 200-year history of the Mission, non-compatible materials were used at times in repairs.

Since 1989 the Patronato has reversed this trend, returning to the use of traditional materials in the Mission's preservation. Conservation of the exterior of Mission San Xavier will not only preserve the building as a work of architecture and sculpture, but also protect and preserve the original 18th Century mural paintings and statuary of the interior.

The Mission's interior artwork is both literally and figuratively sacred: each speck of the original paint or plaster is irreplaceable, and great effort is expended in preserving every square centimeter.

By contrast, the exterior of the building functions like a skin, protecting the interior from the elements: rain and hail, heat and dust, cycles of freezing and thawing (Tucson, at 2,500 feet is above the frost line). As with human skin, the plaster finish of the exterior, including surface walls and vaults, must breathe and permit movement. The historic structure is a living, breathing organism and so requires constant attention and maintenance.

Original features are repaired where possible, rather than replaced. Where the original fabric has deteriorated beyond repair - a point that has a different definition for each material - the deteriorated element is replicated using authentic and compatible materials, based on documentary evidence.

Tucson architect Bob Vint has been involved in the Mission's preservation since 1988. The work accomplished as a part of San XavierÍs conservation is carefully documented so that future generations will know exactly what was done and how.

You can follow the progress of the Mission's restoration by clicking on the links on the left side.

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