As a Californian, I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve never visited any of the historic California Missions.
I finally got the chance to correct that oversight on a recent family trip (on the way back from San Diego), when we decided to stop by Mission San Juan Capistrano.
Visiting Mission San Juan Capistrano (San Juan Capistrano, California)
Editor’s Note: This article is part of my ongoing series on “Things To Do In The State of California“
About Mission San Juan Capistrano
Founded in 1776 by Franciscan missionaries from Spain, Mission San Juan Capistrano has a long and storied history.
Here is some information from Mission San Juan Capistrano’s Official Website.
Images: missionsjc.com
Map Of The San Juan Capistrano Mission
The grounds of the Mission were fairly large, with about 10 main points of interest including the “centerpiece” Great Stone Church, the Serra Chapel, and the Central Courtyard.
Ruins of the Great Stone Church
As you enter the grounds of the Mission, the first stop for many is the ruins of the Great Stone Church in the Southeast corner of the property.
Statue: “Coming of the Two Cultures”
Sacred Garden
Around the back from the Great Stone Church are the Mission’s iconic bells (which are depicted in the logo).
Serra Chapel 1782
From the Sacred Garden, the Serra Chapel is easily accessed and an essential stop for the faithful.
Central Courtyard
The central courtyard, filled with fountains and gardens, is a stunningly beautiful and picturesque center to the property and the gateway to its museums, treasures & relics, and wine vat.
Irvine Museum
Mission Clubhouse
Historic Wine Vat
Free Picnic Area
Final Thoughts: Visiting Mission San Juan Capistrano (San Juan Capistrano, California)
As a non-religious person, visiting a Mission was never that high upon my list of things to do.
With that said, as a Californian (and a history buff), I had a wonderful time visiting Mission San Juan Capistrano.
It was a welcoming and beautiful property, filled with some very interesting historical sites, exhibits, and treasures – all of which made for a very relaxing and fun afternoon exploring the Old Mission.
If you have the time and are in the neighborhood (South Orange County), the historic Mission San Juan Capistrano is definitely worth checking out for the religious and non-religious alike.
Cheers!
