"The Barrio Viejo"

   I spent a day photographing Tucson’s Barrio Viejo. Barrio Viejo means “old neighborhood” in Spanish. The 19th century commercial and residential buildings were the home to a very diverse population of people from the Americas, Europe, Africa, and Asia. The Barrio was established when Tucson was still a part of Mexico. In the mid-20th century, some of the Barrio was destroyed in the name of “urban renewal”.

   Now the remaining structures are safe, and many have been restored with effort to stay true to their beautiful architectural style. Brownish and blue patina lanterns hang over the doorways in a neighborhood that now has a vibrant and diverse arts scene, with muralists commissioned to paint across the neighborhood.

   For me, it was a bit of the American Southwest’s history that I’m glad I had the chance to see.