Tucson History & Culture
Trying to sum up Tucson's deep-rooted history in a few paragraphs just isn't possible. One would need to read through thousands of pages from the countless books that have been written about this area by obsessed writers and historians. Equally as impossible would be to try and decouple this history from the region's unique blend of cultures. They are inextricably linked.
Any way you look at it, the narrative begins thousands of years ago with ancient Indigenous peoples who first settled this land, most notably the Hohokam. In fact, after studying numerous sites along the Santa Cruz River, adjacent to what is today Downtown Tucson, archeologists have determined that humans have been here for over 12,000 years. This estimate means that the Tucson region is likely the oldest continuously inhabited area in the United States. This legacy continues today through the Pascua Yaqui Tribe and Tohono O'odham Nation, forming the foundation of the vibrant cultural landscape for which Tucson is known.
As we take pride in Tucson's history and culture, we must acknowledge and respect the fact that this area that we love so much and that attracts visitors from across the globe is on the land of indigenous peoples.
Combined with these ancestral roots are the Spanish Colonial, Mexican, and Anglo influences that have shaped the culture and aesthetic of the region. From the famous Mission San Xavier del Bac and Tucson Presidio to many historic ranches that still operate today, visitors can travel through time and experience what life might have been like in the 18th and 19th centuries. And of course, Arizona was part of Mexico for longer than it has been part of the U.S. meaning that the influences of Mexican culture are distinctly felt in every corner of the city. From the art and music to the delicious food, Mexico's spirit is Tucson's soul.
Taste the history & culture of Tucson: Tucson was the first city in the U.S. to be designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy thanks to the aforementioned ancient agricultural history and lasting cultural influences from Europe and Mexico. Find out more about why Tucson is a City of Gastronomy and taste the authentic flavors of Mexico with America's Best Mexican Food.
Learn More About Tucson's History
Featured Cultural Events
View Events CalendarA Western Experience
- April 18, 2024 - May 12, 2024
- Old Tucson
Agave Heritage Festival
- April 18, 2024 - April 21, 2024
- Hotel Congress
Day Tours of Southern Arizona
- April 18, 2024 - May 26, 2024
- Reisen Arizona Southern Arizona Day Tour
SOFIA Tours
- April 18, 2024 - April 19, 2024
- Pima Air & Space Museum
Time Travelers: Foundations, Transformations, and Expansions at the Centennial
- April 18, 2024 - October 6, 2024
- Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block
Tucson Tango Festival
- April 18, 2024 - April 21, 2024
- Marriott Tucson University Park Hotel
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