San Xavier del Bac Mission, located 10 miles south of Tucson on the Tohono O’odham Nation, is an iconic example of Spanish colonial architecture. Known as the “White Dove of the Desert,” its striking white facade contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert landscape. Built between 1783 and 1787, the mission blends Moorish, Byzantine, and Mexican Renaissance styles, featuring intricate carvings, vibrant murals, and a gilded retable depicting biblical stories. Still an active parish, it holds daily masses and remains a spiritual center for the Tohono O’odham people. Extensive restorations have preserved its historic beauty, making it one of the best-preserved Spanish missions in the U.S. Visitors can explore the mission’s interior, join free docent-led tours, or browse crafts and frybread sold by local artisans.

The Park of the Aqueducts stretches across the outskirts of Rome, where the remains of several Roman aqueducts cut across the landscape. The towering arches, still largely intact, offer an impressive reminder of the city’s engineering heritage.

The Roman amphitheatre of Cartagena in Murcia, which was built between 5 and 1 BC, is wonderfully preserved, and the museum close by offers excellent exhibits that display interesting historical artefacts.

This is a great park for a morning hike, followed by a cosy lunch either at a restaurant or with your own picnic. The nature is simply beautiful.