San Miguel Chapel

We barely made it before closing time, but the kind woman allowed us a few minutes to check it out and we were grateful as this place was very interesting. It's said to be the oldest church in the US, apparently built in 1610! Some notably cool features were the paintings on the back wall, behind the altar. So unique compared to the church artwork I had been exposed to previously. Another is how they preserved a section of the original floor, which was about 3'-4' deeper than the floor we were on! They also have a display of the original wall as it looked before a vital restoration project. Lastly, the bell, which used to be in its rightful place: the bell tower, now finds itself on the floor just inside the chapel's front doors. You're allowed to strike the bell using a tool they provide. The sound was cool and you're encouraged to touch it to experience the vibrations as well. I would have loved a couple of hours to pray in and explore it. But we were grateful to have enjoyed it for as long as we were allowed.

It was New Year weekend and we were not lucky to get inside but still worthwhile to be there. It’s a quaint place and next to the visitor center (was closed unfortunately). A must visit and they have clear schedule where you could plan your visit much better than we did! Our visit was random and it was so well worth it!

Major shout out to Helen at the San Miguel Chapel. You are truly setting the bar for excellence when it comes to regards to customer’s service and experience you were so filled full of knowledge and wisdom about this historic site and we greatly appreciate all of your historic references. This is one of the oldest churches in that in Santa Fe, New Mexico, if you go cross country or you find yourself in Santa Fe, New Mexico, I highly recommend you put it on your bucket list

It was cool visiting the oldest church in the United States. It was very nice inside and well taken care of. I highly recommend this place to visit due to its history. As a history nerd, I enjoyed my visit here.

Beautiful history in this church! ⛪️ the peace and prosperity of being here is a blessing! Reading the background of this place gives you the feeling of peace by how much they have worked hard to keep it preserved 🙏🏽❤️

Santa Fe truly offers something unique with the oldest church in the US. This beautiful church retains its traditional charm, featuring a New Mexican style ceiling inside and the classic Santa Fe look outside. It’s wonderful to witness this culture being preserved over the years. A must-visit for everyone!

This this wonderful to visit. They charge $5 to get in but it helps maintain this church. The history is amazing and it is very quiet.

Historic old Spanish mission in Santa Fe. This place was pretty cool. The chapel hosts a lot of the old altar and art and there are windows by which you can see the old original steps. Centuries-old beams still uphold the chapel.

This Catholic Church (opposite from The Pink Adobe) is possibly the oldest church in the US, destroyed during the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. The current building dated from 1710, with major renovations. The docent who's working in the garden, is retired from San Francisco, "I volunteer here, do whatever, taking care of the garden, and docent a tour ..."

If you're looking for some history while in Santa Fe, NM then this is a great place to visit. San Miguel Chapel, is a Spanish colonial mission church in Santa Fe, New Mexico. Originally built around 1610, it is often referred to as the oldest church building in the continental United States. The church was rebuilt twice, once in the mid to late 17th century, and again in 1710 following the Pueblo Revolt.

Quaint chapel with informative and helpful guides. A cello player was there playing live calming music. At the railing, you can look over and see the 1610 foundation.

I didn't even know this place existed & we only found out about it because it was next to the Oldest House Museum we were visiting. I'm really glad we stopped in thanks to all the history it represents & in some ways it is as impressive as Loretto Chapel! The one thing I'll never forget is the creaky boards as you walk the church. You can definitely hear the age with every step!

San Miguel Mission is a very modest church with its simple architecture and simplicity. But these are the reasons it'll get your attention also. It blends well with the local architecture and its shades of brown paint. This is the oldest catholic church built in USA around 1610. It has a lot of rich history behind, including destruction, reconstruction and so much more. Admission is symbolic and it is a nice place to visit in Santa Fe!

San Miguel Chanel is better known as the oldest church in the continental United States. It is located in the Barrio de Analco, a historic district of Santa Fe, right across from the oldest house. The barrio was founded by Tlaxcala Indians and the adobe church was built by the supervision of Franciscan friars for soldiers and Indians that lived in these quarters in early 1600's.

We sort of stumbled into this little church when I was in Santa Fe, and I am so glad we did. Ever so slightly off the beaten path, San Miguel claims to be the oldest church in the US, dating from around 1610. I'll take them at their word on that fun fact. We happened to arrive when a docent started to give a presentation about the church. The history is absolutely fascinating, and the decent was excellent at telling it. While much of the church has been modified through the centuries, parts are quite ancient, including the foundation, which you can see under glass near the front of the church. Even more entertaining, especially if you have kids, is that they actually let you ring the old church bell, which of course I HAD to do. Unless you really, really don't care about history, I would definitely consider this a must-do stop in Santa Fe. You don't need to spend much time here, and hopefully someone is there to tell the story of the building as well as we got to experience.

Oldest church in the U.S.! San Miguel Mission is a must while visiting Santa Fe. It's truly a historic gem, and for only $2 admission, you can walk around, take pictures and really get the sense of the church's history and beyond. It's also very surprising for how long the church has been established since 1610, it's very well kept and maintained. You can even ring the gigantic bell inside! Located in downtown Santa Fe, the church is among other tourists sites, shops and businesses, so it's a convenient stop while in town. Adjacent to the church is also a gift shop that sells a lot of handmade items from New Mexico, including where you get admission tickets. I would encourage anyone visiting to check out San Miguel, the oldest church in the United States.

And now, the oldest church in the United States. It was cool to be in the presence of it, as well as taking photos of it along with selfies. But it was not open that day unfortunately, so I was not able to see the oldest bell in the United States. Apparently they couldn't find help to guide tourists. That's okay, maybe next time!

The sound of church bells is one of tenderness and gentleness! It is created by "felt" on metal, not metal on metal. And "felt" on metal produces a tender, gentle sound, not a sharp, harsh sound. It's like someone you love running their fingers through your hair, compared to someone pulling your hair. And in the tenderness and gentleness of that sound of the church bells, you feel the tenderness and gentleness of god's love as he whispers "I love you" with a delicate musicality. It is that subtle, gentle musicality that is the basis for my love the tender, gentle bells of The San Miguel Mission. The gentle bells run their fingers through my hair and whisper I love you, and in my mind's eye, it is my love running her fingers through my hair and whispering I love you, ever so softly. And in that moment, I find peace, tender peace, because in the end, there is no charm equal to tenderness of heart. - Originally built around 1610, of The San Miguel Mission is often referred to as the oldest church in the United States.

Oldest Church structure in the continental USA ca 1610... That's around the time of Jamestown and Plymouth. While it may not sound that old compared to churches in Europe, and design here is much simpler but considering what was available back then, only 100 years after the Columbus's first settlement, it is amazingly well constructed. The original adobe walls are still largely intact. Environment could be harsh here in dry climates. Using what is known by native Americans at that time, this mission was build under the direction of Franciscan Padres. Reading about this mission made me realize how much I didn't know about US history. This mission is still used as a church on Sunday, in fact, when I first arrived in Santa Fe, they were in the middle of the service. I came back after the service was over to go inside. Inside was simple. I really admired the ceiling (knowledge and technology used to construct the ceiling). No wonder why it is still in tact after all these years. They also have the original bell on display. Just come in and feel the history and admire the Adobe building. Oh, while you are there, stop by to look for the oldest house in the continental US.

This was our first stop in Santa Fe and it was a nice start to the day of exploration. Parking is hard to find so we parked at the visitor center which gave us 30 minutes. Turns out that was plenty of time as it is a small but beautiful church. I love walking into a place ripe with history. The entry fee is $1 per person and well worth it as it helps with preserving this historical wonder for years to come.

I get really excited to take pictures of places like San Miguel Mission. The outside architecture is simple but beautiful. I loved how much history is contained within it's walls. It's interesting that the bell inside the cathedral is much older than the church itself. Like other churches, it has it's ornate details but there is also something pleasantly rustic about it, too. I do however think it's strange to charge money for a church and it not be implied in any way that the money is actually going to the upkeep of the church. There is a large partition once you step inside so that you can't see anything unless you pay so that felt a little touristy and took a something away from the experience. Yes, it's only a dollar but I'm from the mindset that churches should by and large be open to the public. Otherwise, a definite go see.

This is officially the oldest standing structure I have ever been in. This was beyond fascinating just to see and touch something of such historical value. through glass protection you can look through and see the original flooring also is a section you can see the original wall structure. The outside of the building, you can see the mixture of everything from rock to straw and grass mixed in like a stucco that was used for strength and durability to protect against the elements. I mean when you're standing in this church you have to stop and think this was built before Columbus even discovered America. The person in the store was incredibly nice and very helpful with any questions there are tapestries on the wall and one of the original bell that you can strike with a rubber mallet the sound was incredible. We bought an expensive gift from the gift shop to give a little support and say we have something from the oldest standing structure in America. kind of neat I guess. You don't really have to be a history buff to appreciate this. Put it on your stop if you come through downtown Santa Fe for sure. See you down the road...

Hubby and I stopped by on two separate days (Saturday and Sunday), but this church was not open. It was a little disappointing that there was not more availability to visit inside the Oldest Church in the US.

Be a tourist. Live some history. Come and ring the bell. (don't be shy). It's so crazy to me that we have this mission church right here in the US. When I step in I'm reminded of the churches I've seen in Europe and Latin America. I'm referring to those really OLD and really BAROQUE churches. The kind you see on TV and read about in textbooks. The reality of Spanish colonialism history will just fascinate you. Try to understand what you are looking at when you walk in. Because the reality is: this place is small, dusty, and old. It's more like a dated edifice housing historic religious artifacts that are faded and weathered. Well, that's history folks. Entrance costs less than $5 and you can stop in the gift shop and buy a little whooosiewhatsit to remember.

It was a surreal experience to be inside this very old church. I was overwhelmed with emotion to be inside a historic and holy place. Kudos to the people who have kept this place in great shape.

The San Miguel Mission is the oldest church building in the US--older than the settlements at Jamestown, the Puritans in New England, or when the Spanish made landfall in Florida. It is the oldest mission church,which makes it fascinating. The interior combines Spanish baroque and Native American motifs. The exterior is rustic--a rough contrast to the White Dove of the Desert, or Missions Santa Barbara and San Diego. There is plenty of history. The church is built above an ancient kiva (a sacred place for the Hopi)The Christian Brothers currently own it. One could say that San Miguel Mission is the REAL origin of the Spanish mission trail. Indeed,one could go all the way to the end of the mission trail at St. Francis Solano in Sonoma. What began in the Land of Enchantment ends in the Wine Country. San Miguel Mission is a must-see for anyone in Santa Fe. It's a mixture of religion,spirituality,art,and history. It is enchanting...

Oldest church in the US. Easy walk from downtown SF. Only $1 for admission. It's tiny but worth seeing.

Historical sites as this are always fascinating to see. The unreal blue skies atop the church are stunning. There's a bell in the church from the 1300s. This church is deemed the oldest church in the United States, 1610. The adobe walls and altar are original. It is situated on the Old Santa Fe Trail, Route 66. While here check out the Oldest House in the U. S. next to it in the alley. Both places are haunted and built on top of Anasazi kivas, etc. Down the street is the Fonda, which is also a hot spot for paranormal activity, particularly in the dining area.

Oldest church in the United States. Only $1 to get in. The decor is a crazy mix of Mexican art and knick knacks. Very cool historical visit not a far walk from the downtown area of Santa Fe. Definite must see and picture opt.

We read a couple reviews about San Miguel and were glad we took the extra 20 minutes to walk to see it. Although we didn't do the tour, the simple architecture with a bright blue sky as a backdrop made for stunning photos!

Right when you open the door, they ask for a $1 admission fee. Never seen a church and on top of that a small church charge admission. I hate money hungry churches.

Love history and are sight seeing in Santa Fe? Be sure to check out San Miguel Mission, the oldest standing Catholic Church in America. Built in 1610! Well worth the time invested to see it!

This is the oldest church in the u.s.a. and has a lot of interesting history behind it. We spoke with a caretaker there, and he told us that some of the wealthy people from back in the day are buried under the alter of the church. Almost 300! Wow!

I've never paid to go to church before, but then again I've never been in a church building that was built in 1610! Quick in and out for a buck a person. Loved the history and enjoyed ringing the bell. John 3:16

A must see. Really reminded us of the California missions. Beautiful old church which shows us a glimpse of the past.

This church is truly amazing! It's kept in great condition and the admission price is very reasonable. It will only take 15min to look around the church so, there's no excuse not to stop if you're in Santa Fe :)

I love the way they set up this mission so that you can see the old flooring and walls. It is really great to be able to see what the original walls looked like and what the renovations have entailed. Great stop if you are in Santa Fe, only $1 donation to view and you can take pictures.

The oldest church. Not many builds survive the wrecking ball. I glad to see this one has been saved. It was undergoing repairs to the front the day we visited, but the interior was open. There was nice lady talking about the church & offered everyone a chance to ring the original bell. The oldest house is next door.

They let my kids ring the old bell in the back of the church, and while the church is very small, it's interesting to see the original adobe floor from the 1600's. I agree with other reviewers that the $1 fee to get in is strange, but they let us visit twice in the same day without paying twice.

Continuing on with my tour de Santa Fe was a stop by the San Miguel Mission. I had always known Santa Fe was rich with art, but never quite realized how rich they were with history! However, I figured that out quite quickly just by walking through the streets. I learned that San Miguel is known as the oldest mission in the United States, which surprised me since I originate from California which has its own mission history. This mission was limited on frills and very adobesque. I especially loved seeing the old bell tower bell that fell long ago but they have managed to preserve it so visitors can see it up closer. The volunteers were knowledgeable and provided a history of the mission, along with the information on the walls and a newsletter that you can purchase for just a $1 (and it's worth it). Just down the street from the mission lies the oldest house in the US, but unfortunately I didn't get to tour it because the staff was out of the office that day. However, when you visit San Miguel Mission, make sure you look for the oldest house next door!

Wonderful little church! There was a cute little gift shop and a volunteer Priest who was able to answer questions and encouraged us to ring the bell (which means I'll return to Santa Fe!) I was surprised to hear they still hold mass on Sundays - Latin mass even!!

This nice little church is said to be the oldest church in the US. Its walls are made of adobe and they were constructed around A.D. 1610. Even if the monument itself looks a little bit made up (I'm sorry but Adobe doesn't stand hundred years), it shows what looked like that kind of construction during that time. That's also a reminder of what Americans did to native peoples: they brought missions all over the country to destroy native Americans cultures, traditions and religions (everything is linked).

The mission is so old and historical. It was amazing to see the history. It was very well maintained and beautiful. Only concern is the staff. They were late opening tthe doors the day we went with no apologies. Overall, a must visit if you love the Santa Fe historical culture.