San Diego’s Historic Missions

The Spanish Missions of California stand as some of San Diego’s oldest monuments. Established by Spanish Catholics between 1769 and 1823, these missions are religious outposts that brought livestock, fruits, vegetables, flowers and industry into California.
Mission San Luis Rey , located in scenic Oceanside, is called “King of the Missions” and offers something for everyone. Educators, history buffs, children and all curious minds will discover a part of San Diego history not easily forgotten. Mission San Luis Rey is the largest of our 21 missions and is ranked first among the Seven Wonders of San Diego County North.
Mission San Diego de Alcala, known as the Mother of the Missions, was the first of the 21 missions to be built in Southern California. The five bells have been meticulously restored, and all ring together on Alcala’s birth date, July 16. Today, the mission is an active Catholic Parish in the Diocese of San Diego. There is so much to learn about San Diego’s past, and the missions are a great place to gather information.   www.missionsandiego.com.