The Missions of the Sierra Gorda In eastern valleys of the Sierra Gorda of the central Mexican state of Queretaro are five remarkable missions, especially noted for their highly decorative façades. The missions are the work of native people under the direction of Franciscan missionaries led by Fray Junipero Serra, who would later found the Missions of California. In 2003, the Missions of the Sierra Gorda were named as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Mission at Landa I began my full day visit of the all five missions with a foggy morning stop at Santa Maria del Agua de Landa, located in Landa de Matamoros, the second largest town in the region. Possessing the most decorative façade of the group, the mission at Landa was constructed from 1760-1768. To view my website with information on traveling to and within Mexico, visit Larpman's Guide to Mexico.

The texture seen in the close-ups is due to a protective black net that was placed over the façade after restoration.

There are also galleries of the other four missions. Click on the names to view.
• Mission at Jalpan • Mission at Tancoyal • Mission at Tilaco • Mission at Concá •

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