Capilla de Viejo San Acacio - San Acacio, CO - This Old Church on Waymarking.com

Established in 1856, this adobe mission in southern Colorado is considered to be the oldest standing church in the state. The chapel marks the site of an early Hispanic settlement called Viejo San Acacio established in 1853. It is located about 6 miles east of San Luis and 3 miles southeast of the new San Acacio (now practically a ghost town).

Legend has it that the settlement was miraculously saved from a band of Ute warriors. According to the story, the locals prayed to Saint Acacias, a Roman Centurion, to save them. The Indian warriors looked up, pointed to the sky and fled from what they saw as a fierce warrior on a white steed riding down towards them. In an act of faith and gratitude, the church was built on that spot and named after their protecting saint.

Although the church has been renovated to preserve the delicate adobe walls, it stands in virtually the same shape as it did in the 1800's.

Source: The Culebra River Villages of Costilla County, Colorado, San Luis Valley Heritage, "The Legend of Southern Colorado's San Acacio Viejo" by ziyena

Date the Church was built, dedicated or cornerstone laid: 01/01/1856 Age of Church building determined by?: Cornerstone or plaque If denomination of Church is not part of the name, please provide it here: Catholic Street address of Church: 14152 Cty. Rd. 14.8 If Church is open to the public, please indicate hours: Not listed If Church holds a weekly worship service and "all are welcome", please give the day of the week: Not listed Indicate the time that the primary worship service is held. List only one: Not Listed Primary website for Church or Historic Church Building: Not listed Secondary Website for Church or Historic Church Building: Not listed

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