Just below Tucson Arizona is the Mission San José de Tumacácori. This old church isnt in the best shape like a few of the other missions we've explored, but that's what made it so interesting.
Rather than being restored to perfect condition, this crumbling mission is just dripping with character. You can see centuries of history on the flaking walls.
In the back is a small cemetary half finished like much of the rest of the church. The mission never really was finished 100% because of the termoil at that time between the United States and Mexico.
There is an old cellar in the back where the priest used to store the the years worth of harvest.
Make sure to stop by for a visit if ever in the Tucson area. It's worth the time. I was told by a local who was there photographing the area that late afternoon is the best light rather than morning. We were there in early december and the perfect time was between 4 and 5pm for that beautiful afternoon light.
It's close to the border and expect some check points when coming back up towards Tucson. But the Border Patrol was very friendly and courteous. If ever near Tucson, it's worth the visit.
Here is a
Link to the full gallery
Pat