039: Secrets of Mission Architecture: Dr. Rubén Mendoza (Part 1)

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 MoreWebsite: Solstice ChroniclesBooks by Rubén G. MendozaThe California MissionsThe California Missions SourcebookThe Spanish Style House: From Enchanted Andalusia to California DreamCasa Santa Fe: Design, Style, Arts and TraditionNorth American Ritual Warfare and Indigenous ViolenceLatin American Indigenous Warfare and Ritual ViolenceSend a Comment.Support the showGive a one-time donationLearn more about the California Frontier Project:WebsiteYouTubeInstagramFacebookContact:[email protected]