The San Miguel Chapel
THE OLDEST CHURCH STILL IN USE IN THE U.S. IS THE SAN MIGUEL CHAPEL. One can feel the original adobe altar, walls and floor of this structure built in 1610 by the Tlaxcala Indians under the direction of the Franciscan Padres.
Restored, and hanging in the church are many fine old paintings, Icons and excellent wood carvings.
The oldest bell in USA is there for anyone to touch and ring. The six-hundred-year old bell was brought from Spain having been cast in 1356. The casting contains silver and gold from the jewelry, rings and necklaces of the faithful from the village of San Jose, Andalucia, Spain. A Santa Fean, Senora Loreta Baca Ortiz, ordered the famous bell to be brought to San Miguel Chapel in 1712.
