A lot of times we forget that, a hidden gem could be nestled a stone throw away from where you have lived for years. One sunny morning a short drive took us to the coastal city of San Juan Capistrano. An arterial freeway dissects this relatively young city carrying millions through its multiple lanes. Nestled between is the Mission. Built in the late 1700s, it is an interesting amalgamation of Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European architecture and culture.
This place is also regarded as the "Birthplace of Orange County". Until the early 1800s, the Spanish occupied this mission. It was their outpost where they brought people from their homeland to form colonies. The Spanish also believed they could transform the Native people into good Spanish citizens.
However this was a daunting task and it wasn't easy for the Spaniards to communicate and convert them to Christianity. The native learnt a lot about new technological advances that was already developed in Europe.
After the big earthquake in southern california in 1800s and independence for Mexico, the mission lost it significance and declined. Today the ruins of the old stone church, Mission walls include the early adobe barracks, Friars' quarters, olive millstone, cemetery, aqueduct system, and gardens attract many visitor to the historic place.
Some of the artifacts and paintings in display takes you back in time when the south land was bursting with orange groves and winery. The gardens and fountains are captivating and create tranquil moments. Ringing bells create a wonderful vibration. It was certainly a place worth visiting and enjoy a day in the hustle and bustle of Southern California.
A quick glimpse of the mission through my eyes can be seen at
http://worldunfolded.smugmug.com/History/Mission-San-Juan-Capistrano/29510316_kMKzxf
This place is also regarded as the "Birthplace of Orange County". Until the early 1800s, the Spanish occupied this mission. It was their outpost where they brought people from their homeland to form colonies. The Spanish also believed they could transform the Native people into good Spanish citizens.
However this was a daunting task and it wasn't easy for the Spaniards to communicate and convert them to Christianity. The native learnt a lot about new technological advances that was already developed in Europe.
After the big earthquake in southern california in 1800s and independence for Mexico, the mission lost it significance and declined. Today the ruins of the old stone church, Mission walls include the early adobe barracks, Friars' quarters, olive millstone, cemetery, aqueduct system, and gardens attract many visitor to the historic place.
Some of the artifacts and paintings in display takes you back in time when the south land was bursting with orange groves and winery. The gardens and fountains are captivating and create tranquil moments. Ringing bells create a wonderful vibration. It was certainly a place worth visiting and enjoy a day in the hustle and bustle of Southern California.
A quick glimpse of the mission through my eyes can be seen at
http://worldunfolded.smugmug.com/History/Mission-San-Juan-Capistrano/29510316_kMKzxf
