gray concrete structure

Located a few blocks from the Plaza, the original mission was built between 1615 and 1627. It has massive adobe walls, large carved vigas, and supporting corbel arches. The church remains an inspiration symbol of the Spanish Catholic heritage, celebrated by the annual Fiestas in late September. In May of 1598 Spanish explorers under the leadership of Don Juan de Onate, accompanied by two Franciscan priests came to what is now known as Socorro. The explorers went farther North along the Rio Grande, the two priests remained to do missionary work among the Indians. Father Alfonso Benavidez became known as: "The Apostle of Socorro". It was he who named the village: "Nuestra Senora de Perpetuo Socorro" ... meaning: ""Our Lady of Perpetual Help", in recognition of the succor they received from the Indians. In later years the name was shortened to SOCORRO