Rosendo S. Perez Park

A Glimpse into History

Found in the Barrio Viejo neighborhood of Tucson sits a small but culturally significant spot known as Rosendo S. Perez Park. You might also hear locals refer to it as El Tiradito or "The Wishing Shrine" - a name that hints at its unique character. Located near where South Main Avenue meets West Cushing Street, this isn't your typical swing-set-and-picnic-tables kind of park.

What makes this place special isn't its recreational offerings but rather its deep cultural roots. It's actually home to something quite remarkable: the only shrine in the United States dedicated to the soul of a sinner buried in unconsecrated ground.

The Heart of El Tiradito

The centerpiece of this modest space is "El Tiradito" itself - the wishing shrine that gives the park its alternative name. While the grounds are relatively small and understated, featuring some remnants of gardens and baths, there's something profoundly moving about standing in a place with such a unique story.

Far From Just a Park

Don't expect sprawling lawns or elaborate playground equipment here. What you'll come across instead is a meaningful cultural landmark that offers a window into Tucson's diverse heritage. The park's namesake, Rosendo S. Perez, recognized its importance and worked to have El Tiradito added to the National Register of Historic Places - an accomplishment that helped preserve this piece of local history.

Worth Experiencing

Though you won't find sports fields or hiking trails, a visit here offers something different: a chance to connect with a lesser-known chapter of Tucson's past. Take a moment to explore the space and absorb its atmosphere, a small but significant cultural spot within the neighborhood.