Mission San Juan Capistrano, a historic landmark and museum, is the Birthplace of Orange County. Founded more than two hundred years ago as the 7th of 21 missions statewide, it features a standing chapel where Mass was once celebrated by Saint Serra. Today, it stands as a monument to California’s diverse history, embracing Native American, Spanish, Mexican, and European heritage. Originally established as a self-sufficient community by Spanish Padres and Native Americans, the Mission served as a center for agriculture, industry, education, and religion. Renowned for the Annual Return of the Swallows, Mission San Juan Capistrano is known as the “Jewel of the California Missions” and attracts over 300,000 visitors annually.
