Mission Santa Barbara

California is well known for the string of missions that were built in the 1780s by the Franciscan monks in the area with the purpose of bringing Christianity to the local Chumash Indians. Mission Santa Barbara is no exception. It is the tenth mission and was founded on the feast of St. Barbara on December 4, 1786. It was planned by Padre Junipero Serra, who is known for being instrumental in the planning and building of the first nine missions in California. However, it was his successor, Padre Fermin Francisco de Lasuen who actually had it built. For the first three years, only a modest building was there, but as time went on, the church became larger. In fact, there were three different churches, each bigger than the previous one. The third one was destroyed in an earthquake in 1820. This was when the present building was built, which was finished in 1820. Over the years, different parts of the mission have been added to and improved, and restorations have been necessary due to other earthquake damage. Today, this beautiful mission is not only a wonderful tourist destination, but also a functioning church.

Located on a hill above the beautiful city of Santa Barbara, the mission is at 2201 Laguna Street. It is open every day except Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you want to attend mass in the gorgeous chapel, you can go at several different times on Sunday morning for your convenience. Mass is held at 7:30, 9:00, 10:30 and 12:00. The self-guided tour of the mission begins in the gift shop and the cost is $4 per person.

In addition to the unique mission, which is the only one of the California missions to have two towers, there is a lot to see. The area is absolutely breathtaking. The interior garden of the mission is filled with lush greenery and gorgeous palm trees. There are many historic items to view both indoors and out. Parts of the extensive water works that were built by the Chumash Indians are still intact and can be viewed at the Mission. There are interesting ruins of a pottery kin and tanning vats that were used for many years at Mission Santa Barbara. Take the time to wander the garden, look at the amazing examples of architecture, and sit on the wide front steps leading up to the mission and enjoy the view of the city of Santa Barbara. If you only have a small amount of time in this beautiful city, Mission Santa Barbara is one of those attractions that should not be missed, and will give you a real feel for the history and culture of the area.

Mission Santa Barbara - Santa Barbara California 

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