Ortega Highway, San Juan Capistrano, California, USA
Mission San Juan Capistrano
A Spanish mission in Orange County, California, founded in 1776, known for its Great Stone Church ruins, the Serra Chapel, and the annual return of the swallows.
San Juan Capistrano is the most romantic of California's missions — part ruin, part living parish, all atmosphere. Founded by Junipero Serra in 1776, the mission once had a Great Stone Church that was the largest building in Alta California. An earthquake destroyed it in 1812, and the ruins remain, roofless and ivy-covered, a favorite of painters and photographers. The Serra Chapel, built around 1782, is the oldest building still in use in California and the only surviving church where Serra is known to have said Mass. The mission grounds include gardens, fountains, a working archaeological dig, and the famous swallows that return every spring. The parish church next door is modern and active. History and living faith sit side by side here in a way that works.
Diocese: Diocese of Orange
Style: Spanish Colonial Mission
What to See
The Great Stone Church ruins are haunting and beautiful. The Serra Chapel is small but historically significant — the retablo behind the altar is a golden Baroque piece brought from Spain. The gardens are well-kept and peaceful. Allow at least two hours.
Pilgrim Notes
The mission is in the town of San Juan Capistrano, reachable by Amtrak or Metrolink from Los Angeles or San Diego. There is an admission fee for the museum grounds, but the active parish church is free. The swallows traditionally return around March 19, the feast of St. Joseph.