If you could only visit one of the Alta California missions, I would suggest it be San Juan Capistrano. It’s a drop dead gorgeous mission that attracts over 300,000 visitors each year. Avoid the weekend crowds and plan a serene weekday visit.
The historic “Jewel of the Missions” has it all: the magnificent ruins of a great stone church, the most beautiful gardens of all the missions, an excellent museum, the oldest building in California and swallows that return each year.
Most people begin their tour of the mission by going to the ruins of the great stone church. The church was dedicated in 1806 but lasted only six short years. The earthquake of 1812 (magnitude of 7.5) destroyed the church killing 40 parishioners at an early morning service.
The Serra Chapel was built in 1782 and is said to be the oldest building in Alta California. In addition, it is the only church still standing where Father Serra conducted Mass and performed baptisms. A plaque says that Father Serra confirmed 213 neophytes on Columbus Day in 1783.
The excellent museum displays various items associated with colonial life in Alta California. There are rooms featuring the rancho period, works of the Mission Indians, the soldiers’ barracks and another room showing religious artifacts.
The large stone fountain is teeming with colorful koi and water lilies.
The gardens and plantings set against the cloister are stunning, the most beautiful in the mission system. There are many varieties of succulents, colorful bougainvillea, roses, palm trees, oaks and on and on.
Alta California Missions 