Presidio Santa Cruz Terrenate
Presidio Santa Cruz de Terranate is the most well-preserved defensive Spanish site among what was once a broader regional network.
Originally established in 1775 by Hugo O’Conor, an Irish-born Spanish Army Colonel, the Presidio served as a strategic outpost during conflicts between Spanish forces and Apache groups. However, persistent Apache resistance, corruption within the Spanish administration, and declining morale among soldiers led to the site’s incomplete construction. It was ultimately abandoned by 1780, though briefly reoccupied by the U.S. Army about a century later.
Archaeologist Charles DiPeso conducted studies at the site in 1951, suggesting it was built atop the precontact Sobaipuri village of Quiburi. Subsequent research confirmed the presence of an earlier settlement beneath the Presidio that was not the renowned Quiburi villiage, but indicated it was utilized through time by Sobaipuri, Hohokam, and Archaic peoples.
Read a story on our blog about how "mud parties" help improve the longevity of this site.
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Activities
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Geographic Coordinates
Directions
Take I-10 east from Tucson to AZ 90. Go south 20 miles to AZ 82. Go east 9 miles to Kellar Road, then 2 miles north to the parking lot.
Fees
Day use throughout the San Pedro Riparian National Conservation Area is free; you don't need a permit.
Commercial operators must secure special authorization prior to their planned visit.