Nestled between the Tumacacori and the Santa Rita mountain ranges, Tubac, Arizona, is a small community known as the place where art and history meet.
Established in 1752 as a Spanish Presidio, Tubac is one of the oldest colonial settlements in Arizona.
Credit: Image by John Nupp | Unsplash
Early History of Tubac
Tubac, AZ, started as a prehistoric Hohokam village, home to prehistoric North American Indians who lived from 200 through about A.D. 1450, almost 90 years before Spanish explorers arrived in the Southwest.
According to archeologist Emil Haury, the Hohokam were “masters of the desert.” They are known for having built extensive irrigation canals along the Salt and Gila rivers – the largest and most complex irrigation systems of any culture in the New World north of Peru.
Hohokam villages were highly regarded in the ancient Southwest for their stability. While other ancient Pueblo towns were abandoned after a few decades, some Hohokam villages remained occupied for up to 1,500 years or more.
Tubac later became an O’odham village and farming area.
Credit: Image by steve548 | Pixabay
Tubac’s Role in the Spanish Colonial Period
The first mention of Tubac, AZ, in the Spanish record was in 1726, when a Jesuit priest baptized native people in the area.
According to records of Tubac history, the community became the first permanent European settlement in the state of Arizona. The Tubac Presidio of San Ignacio was established following the Pima Revolt of 1751, as settlers in this area of southern Arizona needed protection.
After the revolt, Governor Ortiz Parilla established Tubac as a Spanish presidio. The soldiers under the command of Juan Tomas Belderrain were encouraged to bring their families with them. Consequently, Tubac became a permanent settlement.
Mexican Independence and Its Impact on Tubac
When Mexico won independence from Spain in 1821, the flag of the new Republic of Mexico flew over Tubac until 1848. During that year, an Apache attack resulted to immense loss of life, and people fled from the village.
The Gadsden Purchase of 1853 lured fortune hunters to return to Tubac. Charles Poston and associates formed the Sonora Exploration and Mining Co. and built their headquarters in the village.
Poston later on became known as the “Father of Arizona”, for his role in acquiring Arizona’s Territorial status. By 1859, Tubac was the largest town in the region.
The American Period and Tubac's Development
During the Civil War, Tubac served as a military camp. This outpost played an important role in protecting the delivery of goods to the north to supply Union troops on the frontier from the port of Guaymas, Mexico.
By 1885, Tubac was beginning to take shape and a schoolhouse was built. The 1885 Territorial Schoolhouse is the second oldest school in Arizona. After the turn of the century, the community flourished, supporting a Hispanic community and a collection of ranches.
The Artistic Renaissance of Tubac
Fast forward to the 1940s, the late painter Dale Nichols started an art colony in Tubac and built a school.
Years later, the Santa Cruz Valley Art Association was founded by a group of artists that helped define Tubac as “A Place Where Art & History Meet.”
In 1972, the Tubac Center for the Arts was built and it continues to represent the community’s artistic heritage and identity to this day.
Credit: Image by ONUR KURT | Unsplash
Tubac's Art Galleries and Studios Today
Today, Tubac’s art scene is a vibrant tapestry of creativity and expression. The village is dotted with over 100 art galleries showcasing a wide range of artistic styles, from traditional Native American pottery to contemporary paintings.
One of the notable galleries in Tubac is the Cobalt Fine Arts Gallery. The gallery represents both established and emerging artists and is known for its collection of contemporary paintings, sculptures, and jewelry.
Cultural Festivals and Events in Tubac
Throughout the year, the town comes alive with a calendar full of exciting events and festivals. One of the highlights is the annual Tubac Festival of the Arts, which is held every February.
The event is the longest-running art festival in the United States and is internationally renowned. During the festival, the streets of Tubac are transformed into an open-air gallery that showcases the works of hundreds of artists.
It’s a truly immersive art experience where you get to enjoy live music, street performances, and the vibrant atmosphere that fills the town during this time.
Another popular event is the Tubac Fine Arts & Crafts Festival, which is held every November. This festive affair offers a unique opportunity to purchase the works of over 100 artists and artisans.
Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
The Tubac Presidio State Historic Park is Arizona’s oldest European community.
The park is home to the best-preserved Spanish Colonial presidio site in the state, as well as three historic buildings – Arizona’s second oldest Territorial School House, Otero Hall, and the Rojas House.
Tumacácori National Historical Park
At the Tumacácori National Historical Park, you’ll find the abandoned ruins of three of the ancient Spanish colonial missions – San Jose de Tumacácori and Los Santos Angeles de Guevavi, established in 1691; and San Cayetano de Calabazas, established in 1756.
These missions were built during the Spanish exploration era and became the centers of communities. In addition, they introduced European farming techniques and cultural customs to indigenous people.
Credit: Image by Md Jibon Talukder | Unsplash
Tubac’s Culinary Scene
Tubac’s culinary scene offers unique dining experiences, from quaint, intimate patios to high-end, sophisticated settings.
The Stables Ranch Grille serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner featuring American fare with a regional flair in a beautiful dining room with spectacular views of the Santa Rita Mountains and the Island Green.
Elvira’s Restaurant, originally established in 1927 in Nogales, Mexico, serves up the best Mexican cuisine and award winning dishes.
Habenero’s is a Mexican fine dining restaurant that serves traditional regional Mexican dishes, including Mole Poblano, Chiles Rellenos, and Tampiqueña, all prepared fresh by Chef Manuel and Chef Christian.
Credit: Image by steve548 | Pixabay
Outdoor Activities and Natural Attractions
Aside from art, Tubac is also known for golf. The Tubac Golf Resort, established in 1959, was initially designed by legendary architect Robert “Red” Lawrence. The 27-hole golf course is impeccably well-maintained and offers a challenging game for all levels.
Other popular outdoor activities in Tubac include birdwatching, hiking, biking, holistic health and spa treatments, wine tastings, hot air balloon rides, and art classes.
Natural attractions worth visiting in and around Tubac include:
Note: This image may include elements generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
Conclusion
Tubac, AZ, is a hidden gem that offers a fascinating blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
If you’d like to know more about this location, feel free to give me a call at 520.245.9000 or send me an email at Sally@Tubac.com to schedule an appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tubac known for?
Tubac is known as an arts colony and is home to over 100 galleries.
How far is Tubac from Tucson?
The historic Village of Tubac is about 45 minutes south of Tucson via I-19.
What are the must-see historical sites in Tubac?
Some of the best historical sites to visit in Tubac include the Tubac Presidio State Historic Park and the Tumacácori National Historical Park.
