In Part 1 of this interview, I talk with trailblazing archaeologist Dr. Rubén Mendoza.

Recounting his unexpected path from a curious young boy to a renowned scholar, Mendoza shares his pioneering work decoding the California missions' architectural secrets.

His discoveries point to an incredible cosmic architecture. The missions were constructed with startling precision to capture rays of sunlight during solstices, equinoxes, and sacred feast days.

This strategic solar geometry suggests a profound intermingling of European and indigenous astronomy.

Mendoza builds a compelling case that the missions embody a masterful hybrid tradition melding European and Native American influences into an architectural marvel.

Learn More

• Website: Solstice Chronicles

Books by Rubén G. Mendoza

• The California Missions
• The California Missions Sourcebook
• The Spanish Style House: From Enchanted Andalusia to California Dream
• Casa Santa Fe: Design, Style, Arts and Tradition
• North American Ritual Warfare and Indigenous Violence
• Latin American Indigenous Warfare and Ritual Violence

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damian@californiafrontier.net