I visited Tumacacori National Monument for the first time in 1979. Over the years we have been there several times. In the early '90s the Monument expanded to include some outlying missions and the Park Service changed the name to Tumacacori National Historical Park.
It is a small Park, just off of the freeway. But it feels secluded and is always quiet, except when they are having a festival. I especially enjoy the patio garden. There are shade trees, pleasant walks over rough hewn stone paths, benches, and several native plant gardens. It would be a wonderful place to sit and contemplate or read or just watch the tourists passing through.
The mission church itself is interesting, with all of its rooms and corridors and weathered adobe bricks. The lighting is perfect for some really moody photos. And although the mission church is probably the focus of attention, my favorite structure within the park is the Mortuary Chapel (pictured above). You can enter from a small door on one side. The walls are curved, and there is no ceiling. There are just wonderful rustic textures and shadows created by its surfaces.
At different times the Park Service brings in local natives to demonstrate various crafts and food making techniques. If you can be there during one of those times it really enhances the visit.
This Park is well worth the side trip, and the hour or two to explore its slow paced grounds. It's never been crowded when we've been there, except for one time when there was a festival. |
