San Felipe Neri Church has a rich history spanning more than three centuries. Originally named San Francisco Xavier, construction began in 1706 under the direction of Fray Manuel Moreno, a Franciscan priest, with completion occurring around 1718–19.
The original structure did not survive intact. The building collapsed due to several attacks from the Comanches and heavy rains and floods in the mid-1770s. A new church was subsequently built on the Old Town Plaza the following year.
The 1793 church reflects diverse ecclesiastical influences from Spain, Mexico, France, and Italy. This European influence marked a departure from the traditional architectural style characteristic of New Mexico during that era. The current structure largely maintains its 1793 form, with notable exceptions. Several modifications occurred in 1916, including the addition of a tin ceiling, brick flooring, and a south entrance. Aside from these updates, today’s church remains substantially unchanged from its 18th-century construction.
Church leadership changed significantly in 1965, when the San Felipe de Neri Parish returned to the Archdiocese of Santa Fe clergy. The Jesuits, who had served the parish for 97 years, departed Albuquerque at that time.
