There are several missions and churches near Tucson vacation rentals. Whether you are a history buff or an art and architecture lover, these landmarks are sure to please.
Saint Augustine Cathedral
The Cathedral, built in 1896 and renovated in the 1960s, it was modeled the Cathedral of Queretaro in Mexico. The Parish Office offers guided tours of the Cathedral.
St. Joseph's Immaculate Heart Academy
Close to your Tucson rental,
although this is not a church, it was originally used as a convent and
served as the first Catholic school in Tucson and the interior chapel
is still there. The school was in use from 1885 until 1968 and nuns
from two different orders taught children from kindergarten through
grade 12.
El Tiradito
Located
in the Barrio on South Main Avenue, the El Tiradito (the Wishing
Shrine) was built in 1894. Legend has it that a young man was buried in
this spot after being caught in a deadly love triangle. You can make a
wish and light a candle, and if the candle burns to the ground, your
wish will be granted. If you look closely at the wall, you can see
hundreds of pieces of paper with notes or prayers pressed into the
cracks.
San Pedro Chapel
Located
in the center of the El Fuerte historic community, the San Pedro Chapel
was built in 1931 and was used throughout the years for religious and
community events. It is now a preferred location for weddings and
baptisms.
Masonic Temple
Located
on South Scott Avenue, the Masonic temple was built in 1915 and is now
listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Benedictine Sanctuary
This
landmark church is home to the Benedictine Sisters of Perpetual
Adoration. It was built in 1940, is located on North Country Club Road
and is a classic example of mission style architecture.
Holy Family Church
This
church was built in 1913 and is located on West University Boulevard.
It is still in use today and you can attend mass throughout the week.
Temple Emmanu-El
This was
the first synagogue in the Arizona Territory, it was built in 1910 by
the first Jewish pioneers to settle the area. The temple was used for
worship until 1949 and is now used to host community events.
Santa Cruz Church and School
Located on South 6th Avenue, the Santa Cruz church was founded in 1916 is still used for services and community.
San Xavier del Bac Mission
Within driving distance from your vacation rental,
the mission is located on the Tohono O'odham reservation and was built
in 1692, and it's still open to the public daily. Almost every
available surface inside the church features a painting or sculpture.
The amount of artwork on the ceiling and walls can be overwhelming at
first, but you should take the time to look around at all the
individual artwork. A must see!
San Agustin Mission Garden
Also known as San Cosme y Damian de Tucson, the San Agustin Mission was first established in 1770 and only its walled garden remains today. Inside the walls, the garden was used to raise crops and trees to feed the mission residents and guests. Outside the walls, the mission planted acres of wheat and corn, and they raised cattle, mules, sheep, horses and oxen.
There are many more lesser known missions, either in ruins or still standing, around your Tucson rental. The many rental properties in Tucson usually offer maps and guides from the tourism board to help you decide which historic place you want to visit. Search VacationHomes.com to see listings, sorted by price, location or amenities, to find the perfect rental to fit your needs.