Did you know there are 21 stunning missions throughout California that are rich with history and over 200 years old? Several of the missions are located in SoCal and are worth a day trip. Want to take a look at these beauties? Here are the 8 historic missions of Southern California that everyone should experience in person. Why head to Europe this summer to see and tour historic buildings, when you can stay close to home and experience incredible history right here?
Dating back to 1782, San Buenaventura was the 9th Spanish Mission to be established in California. It is located in downtown Ventura and is often referred to as "The Mission by the Sea."
The ruins of this magnificent Spanish mission dating back to 1776 can be found in Orange County in the lovely town of San Juan Capistrano. This site is home to Serra's Chapel, the oldest building still in use in all of Southern California.
Located in the quaint town of Solvang, what remains of the Santa Ines Mission is a beautiful reflection of the architecture of the past. Originally founded in 1804, the original structure experienced significant damage from earthquakes, storms and fires. The mission has been restored over the years and now serves as a museum and an active parish church.
Founded in 1786, the Santa Barbara Mission was the 10th Spanish mission in California. Known as the "Queen of the Missions," this stunning masterpiece is just as beautiful today as it was over 200 years' ago. Not only is the architecture a sight to behold, but the manicured grounds and 12-acres of landscaped gardens will take your breath away.
This historic landmark located in San Gabriel dates back to 1771. This was the 4th mission founded in California. Today, it is still a fully functional Roman Catholic Mission that draws visitors from all over the world to tour the church, the grounds, and the onsite museum.
6. Mission San Fernando Rey de España -- Los Angeles
Founded in 1797, this historic beauty can be found in the Mission Hills area of Los Angeles. It was transformed into a working Catholic Church in 1920 with the grounds also serving as a museum.
The largest of the 21 missions is located right here in Southern California in the lovely community of Oceanside in San Diego. Known as the "King of the Missions," this sprawling mission was founded in 1798 and continues to draw a crowd for tours and for use of the facilities, which includes an overnight retreat center.
Founded on July 16, 1769, this was the first of twenty-one missions in California. It also marks the location where Catholicism was first introduced in this part of the world. This stunning mission continues to operate today as a cultural center and as an active parish church .
There’s so much beauty and history to experience close to home. Aren’t these historic missions absolutely breathtaking? If you enjoyed seeing the unique architecture of the missions throughout Southern California, you migh also enjoy this tour of 10 Beautiful Churches in Southern California. So much beauty in this pocket of the world!
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