San Francisco de Asis Historic Church by Debra Martz Pin

I enjoy visiting northern New Mexico and any time those visits include the Taos, New Mexico area, it is a must that I go to Rancho de Taos to admire this beautiful church. It was build between 1772 and 1816 and is a well-preserved adobe building in the heart of the community at the center plaza of the Ranchos de Taos Historic District. It remains an important center of community life and the citizens ensure it stays in good condition. They along with other visitors/volunteers gather for two weeks each June to re-mud the exterior of the adobe church with a mixture of mud and straw. The church is a favorite subject for artists. Ansel Adams photographed the church for his Taos Pueblo art book and Georgia O'Keeffe painted a series of pe...