This 1789 Spanish fortress provided settlers protection from raiding Comanches and Apaches. It was near this site that the expedition of Spanish explorer Don Juan de Oñate stopped to conduct a thanksgiving celebration in 1598. It's located in the San Elizario Historical District, 17 mi southeast of downtown El Paso. Tours are conducted on-site by friendly volunteers but feature only the museum, and not the church. The El Paso Mission Trail Association (915/534-0677) offers more extensive tours. Call ahead if you're planning to visit the church. The father might be able to leave it open a bit later than 11.
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