Santa Barbara Mission
The Santa Barbara Mission, often called the “Queen of the Missions,” was founded on December 4, 1786, by Spanish Franciscan missionaries. It was the tenth of California’s 21 missions and was established to convert the local Chumash people to Christianity and the European way of life. The original structures were simple, but after a major earthquake in 1812, the mission was rebuilt in its present Spanish Colonial style, completed in 1820. It features twin bell towers, a grand façade inspired by classical architecture, and beautiful gardens. The mission played a key role in agriculture, education, and religious life during the Spanish and Mexican periods. After secularization in the 1830s, the mission’s influence declined, but it remained an important religious and cultural site. Today, it is an active parish church, a museum, and a major tourist attraction, known for its historical significance, beautiful architecture, and well-preserved gardens including the rose garden with open space.
- Entry fee into the Mission
- 10 minutes from Santa Barbara Downtown
- Rose garden on the outside with large vast lawns for lounging, playing games, enjoying lunch, etc
- Fiesta week has events at the mission for Old Spanish Days
Words from the Photographer: Always a beautiful sight, great place to watch the sunset on the lawn, and absolutely stunning when the rose garden is in full bloom.
