Spanish Missions of Monterey

The Spanish built 21 missions in California in the second half of the 18th century when the state was part of New Spain. They were established to convert the native American tribes to Christianity. A third of these missions are clustered in Central California in the county of Monterey, which is south of San Francisco.

We visited four of them

Mission San Miguel, San Miguel

This National Historic Landmark, located north of San Luis Obisbo, right in highway 101 houses colorful wall frescoes that were painted by Native Americans in 1821. Walk through the shaded colonnade, which contains 12 arches of different sizes and shapes. An elegant fountain and a Spanish cannon dating back to 1697 are surrounded by 30 species of cacti, roses, and olive trees.

Mission San Antonio de Padua, Jolon, Fort Hunter Liggett

Located in the beautiful Valley of the Oaks this was the third of the 21 missions established in California. A land donation from William Randolph Hearst left this mission’s countryside setting untouched. Its pristine location and well-curated museum make it one of the best to visit. Listen to mission-period music and visit the fruit orchard and grape-crushing vat.Nowadays it remains one of the state’s most isolated missions although it is located right next to a giant army base.

Nuestro Señora de la Soledad, Soledad

Known as the “hard-luck mission,” this site has had an unhappy history of epidemics, floods, and crop failures. Left in ruins for nearly a century, the building was beautifully restored in 1954. Visit the small rustic chapel and tidy rose garden.

Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, Carmel

Wander among the original paintings and statues, massive holy-water fountain, cobblestone pathways, and flower-filled courtyards in this gorgeous Moorish-style mission. Museum exhibits focus on daily aspects of mission life—furniture, tools, and clothing. Father Junipero Serra, who founded 9 of the 21 missions, is buried under the sanctuary.

Information courtesy of VisitCalifornia

Destination : California