During the mid 18th century the Franciscan Junipero Serra who went on to establish the Missions in California, built 5 Missions in the Sierra Gorda [8]. The facades are covered in molded reliefs of plants, animals and saints in “Mestizo Baroque” style, a mixture of indigenous and Spanish Catholic art unique in the world, symbolizing the last face of evangelization in the Americas.
To see these World Heritage treasures we went Aventurate’s Osiris, an expert on the history and significance of the Missions.
Conca Mission, founded in 1754, is the smallest of the Missions. The struggle between good and evil is depicted on the facade.
Conca Mission - 1754
Detail of Indigenous spirit on the facade, Conca
San Roche & his dog, Conca
Angels on the facade of Conca Mission
San Miguel Archangel on dragon, Conca
Original baptismal font in Conca Mission
Tancoyol was the last Mission built by Franciscan Brother Serra, in 1760. It is dedicated to Our Lady of the Light.
Tancoyol Mission 1760
Flower, an indigenous symbol, on facade of Tancoyol
Detail of original door to Tancoyol Mission
Window with monk roped to Christ above
Saint on Tancoyol
Tilaco Mission was founded in 1754 and dedicated to Saint Francis of Assisi. The facade features mermaids with indigenous faces.
Tilaco Mission, 1754, our favorite
Detail on facade of Tilaco Mission
The significance of the bare breasted mermaid is unknown
Angels hold back the curtains
Founded in 1760, the Landa Mission is dedicated to the Virgin of Immaculate Conception. The sculpture of this facade is considered to be the best of the five.
Landa Mission 1760
Facade of Landa Mission
Nun writing whilst looking at indigenous corn cobs - Landa
Symbol of the Franciscans
Detail of column inside the Landa Mission
Jalpan, established by the Franciscan Serro in 1751, is the most important of the Missions. It’s patron is Saint James, protector of the Faith.
Jalpan Mission, 1751, the most important of the 5 Missions
Virgin of Guadalupe, Mexico, at the same height as ...
... the Virgin of the Pilar, Spain, showing equality
Double headed eagle with snake on the facade of Jalpan Mission