San Francisco de Asis Mission Church

— When visiting Taos, New Mexico, one should always plan to drive to the San Francisco de Asis Mission Church. A National Historic Landmark and World Heritage Church, the church was built between 1772 and 1816 by the Franciscans who lived in Ranchos de Taos, New Mexico. The church is well preserved because residents re-mud it every spring. This adobe building is located in the center plaza of the Ranchos de Taos Historic District. The mixture of native and Spanish architectural styles is one of the biggest attractions of this landmark. The building has been the focus of attention for several artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe and Ansel Adams. This is also the only original church which remains intact in the Taos area. Naturally, the church offers regular mass schedules on week days and weekends, as well.