Spanish settlers came to this area in the 1700s, bringing their Catholic faith with them.

These adobe walls are what remains from the Santa Rosa de Lima de Abiquiú church; the sign in front suggests the building dates from 1734. It’s gradually melting away, the way roofless adobe buildings do, which definitely makes it worthy of a photo stop.

As I always do when I am in the presence of ancient adobe, I placed the palms of my hand against the old walls for a moment. I could feel the scratch of straw from the adobe, the warmth radiating back into my hand, and – maybe – some of the spirit of the place.

near Abiquiú, New Mexico
photographed 3.31.2024