Historic Carmel Mission - Carmel, California

Visit Beautiful and Historic Carmel Mission in California.  San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo (or Mission Carmel Basilica) is a beautiful mission located in Carmel, California that was founded in June 3, 1770. This was the second Mission of nine that were founded by Father Junipero Serra.

The Mission was originally located in Monterey, but was moved to its present site in 1771 due to the potential agricultural value of the land here. It is one of the most picturesque of all the California Missions. Father Serra as well as his successor Father Lasuen are buried on site at the Mission church.

This incredibly old and beautifully restored Mission is an active parish church today, and visitors can attend masses and other Catholic services celebrated here daily. You can tour the Mission grounds and many buildings on site, including the Basilica, Chapel, Museum and other structures. Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the Mission, or plan ahead to schedule a docent-led tour online at CarmelMission.org.

There are many fascinating historic exhibits and gallery areas to visit at Carmel Mission. The Junipero Serra Convento Museum is located in the Old Convent at the Mission. This area of the Mission dates to the early 18th century, and it contains the fully restored Padre’s refectory and other living quarter’s rooms. The Serra Sarcophagus is located in the reception or living room here.

A tour of the Basilica itself is perhaps the most dramatic part of a visit to Carmel Mission. Although this was not the original church at Carmel Mission, this stone building has a very long and interesting history. It was planned by Farther Serra, but delays held up its construction until 1795-1797, several years after his death. Today the basilica contains many of the original furnishings and artifacts including paintings and statues.

The Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament is where daily masses and other small liturgical services are held at the Carmel Mission. It is a very pretty Chapel where many visitors attend mass or simply sit and meditate during their tour. The building housing the Chapel contains portions of the original Mission Hostel dating to 1774.

In addition to touring the buildings at Carmel Mission, you can relax in the beautiful gardens here. The colorful flowers and lush foliage create a serene environment that is peaceful and pretty. Photography is a popular activity on the grounds of the Mission. There is also an excellent gift shop at Carmel Mission where you can shop for books, religious gifts, and other items.

There are several hotel options available in Carmel, California as well as many more attractions to see. You can find excellent hotel rates on HotelsCombined.com.

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