You would expect missions in the wealthy seaside communities of Santa Barbara and Carmel to be first rate and they are. Mission Santa Barbara is one of the most impressive in the chain.
The “Queen of the Missions” is the 10th mission and the first established by Fermín Lasuén, Father Serra’s successor. It’s also one of three missions named after women saints. Can you name the other two?
The mission is located on a spectacular hilltop site above the town with sweeping views of the Pacific. The neo-classical facade and the twin bell towers can be seen from far away.
There is a lot to see here: The Mission Church, historic cemetery and mausoleum, gardens and a fine multi-room museum. But it’s best to come during the weekdays to avoid the crowds. Click the images below to enlarge.
The nine-room museum is excellent and fills the space of the former convent. Rooms feature Chumash culture, the history of the mission, a missionary’s bedroom, a kitchen, and various mission workshops.
The spacious church has a large ornate altar with reredos painted in yellow and gold. The nave is ornately painted with fanciful patterns of green, yellow, red and orange.
Outside the church is the historic cemetery and mausoleum which is the final resting place for Spanish missionaries and thousands of Chumash Indians.
Alta California Missions 