Church of San Francisco de Asis

Iconic adobe mission church in Ranchos de Taos, painted by Georgia O'Keeffe and photographed by Ansel Adams.

The Church of San Francisco de Asis in Ranchos de Taos is one of New Mexico's defining adobe buildings. Its massive buttressed rear wall, rounded corners, and hand-plastered surface have made it a favourite subject for artists and photographers, including Georgia O'Keeffe and Ansel Adams.

It stands a few miles south of Taos Plaza, so it is easiest by car or as a short detour on the way in from Santa Fe. The church is still an active parish, not just an art-history object; be respectful inside, and spend a few minutes outside studying how the walls change with the light.

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