This adobe church was constructed in 1776 with the permission of Bishop Pedro Tamarón. The faithful built the structure using hand-rubbed adobe bricks combined with fine straw, creating a distinctive Southwestern architectural style that has endured for nearly 250 years.
The church is designed in the shape of a cross and contains numerous altars throughout its interior. One notable architectural element is the balcony positioned above the entrance, which is characteristic of several New Mexico churches from this era. This balcony is accessible only through the choir loft, an unusual design feature of the period. The facade and gate remain largely original to the 1776 construction, representing an important example of colonial-era religious architecture in the region.
The church houses two bells with distinct purposes and tones. The bell named Gracia produces a sweet, inviting tone used to call parishioners to Mass. In contrast, the somber-toned bell called Refugio announces the death of a community member. These wooden bell towers on the church’s front are modern replacements of the original structures.
