Tag Archive: tucson

Blue Tucson Door – Barrio Viejo – Arizona

Blue Tucson Door - Barrio Viejo - Arizona

A vibrant blue door stands out against a light-colored wall, complemented by a decorative lantern and a large ceramic pot. The address plaque and mailbox add to the charm of this picturesque entrance.

This house is found in one of a number of historic neighborhoods surrounding downtown Tucson, that have become collectively known as Barrio Viejo (the old district). Each area has its own name, but most share similar architectural styles, including; Sonoran, Transformed Sonoran, Transitional, Mission Revival, Pueblo Revival and Spanish Mission Revival.

Ages for the houses range as far back as the 1840’s for the Sonoran style, up through the 1950’s for the various revival styles. But, whether you prefer the truly historic houses, or the more recent revival styles, they all give Tucson (and a handful of other southwest locations like Santa Fe) a unique character, compared to the relatively bland and unvarying style of modern houses across America.

Saguaro Cactus Silhouette at Sunset – Tucson – Arizona

Saguaro Cactus Silhouette at Sunset - Tucson - Arizona

Saguaro Cactus Silhouette at Sunset – Tucson – Arizona

A saguaro cactus sunset in Tucson Mountain Park is a breathtaking display of the Southwest’s natural beauty. As the sun dips below the horizon, the desert landscape transforms into a vivid palette of golds, oranges, blues, and deep reds, illuminating the iconic saguaro cacti that stand tall against the sky. These towering sentinels, some over 200 years old, cast silhouette across the sky as the sun dips below the horizon, adding to the dramatic scene.

The park, located west of Tucson and part of the larger Sonoran Desert, offers an ideal vantage point to experience this spectacle. The surrounding Coyote Mountains frame the view, while the desert comes alive with subtle sounds of wildlife preparing for the cooler nighttime hours. This magical combination of color, light, and serene desert ambiance creates an unforgettable moment for visitors, capturing the essence of Arizona’s rugged yet enchanting landscape.

Tumacacori Spanish Mission Cemetery Cross Sunset – Arizona

Tumacacori Spanish Mission Cemetery Cross Sunset - Arizona

The Tumacácori Spanish Mission Cemetery, located within the Tumacácori National Historical Park in southern Arizona, is a poignant reminder of the region’s colonial history and cultural blending. Established in the late 17th century as part of the San José de Tumacácori Mission, the cemetery served as a burial site for Native O’odham, Spanish settlers, and others connected to the mission.

The cemetery reflects the mission’s role as a crossroads of cultures, where Spanish Catholic traditions were introduced to indigenous practices. Surrounded by adobe walls and marked by simple wooden and stone crosses, the burial ground conveys a sense of both reverence and resilience. While many grave markers have eroded over time, the site remains a place of historical significance, symbolizing the hardships, faith, and enduring legacy of those who lived and labored at the mission. Visitors to the park can explore the cemetery as part of their journey through this historic site, gaining insights into life in the Spanish colonial frontier.