040: Secrets of Mission Architecture (Part 2): Dr. Rubén G. Mendoza

In part 2 of this interview, we delve further into the hidden astronomical alignments of many California mission churches. The orientations allowed sunlight to illuminate altars, tabernacles, and statues of saints on specific liturgical dates like the solstices, equinoxes, and religious feasts. Dr. Rubén G. Mendoza explains the advanced knowledge of astronomy, calendars, and celestial mechanics that the Franciscan missionaries brought and applied in the architectural design of the missions.Rubén describes how the illuminations shift yearly due to the lunar cycle and explains why this knowledge was, at times, lost. His quest to rediscover these hidden spectacles took him to Vatican astronomy archives, containing meticulous calculations from centuries ago. He talks about how his interpretations have faced backlash, and how new examples keep emerging. He continues to write about the missions' complex legacies and offer counterpoints to narratives about figures like Junípero Serra.   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]