Promise and despair—these are not uncommon themes throughout California’s history and the establishment of Spanish missions across the state. Of the 21 missions founded from San Diego to Sonoma, perhaps no other mission stands witness to such intricate tales better than Carmel Mission. At the height of its time, the mission once served as headquarters of the entire mission chain from 1797 to 1833, as well as the center of activity for founder Father Junípero Serra. Unfortunately, when the Mexican government secularized its buildings and land years later, the mission fell into years of disrepair. It was not until the 1930s when a full-scale work began to restore the mission to its current state.
Today, despite no longer being an economic center as it once was, the mission still functions as an active parish, serving its originally intended purpose.
Tips
- Check the latest updates on visiting hours. Since this is an active church, access might be limited by events: https://carmelmission.org/visit/
- There is an entrance fee to visit the basilica and museum.
- Learn more about the California Missions: https://www.visitcalifornia.com/experience/california-missions/