Mission San Juan Capistrano

Famous for the swallows that return annually, Mission San Juan Capistrano was one of the Spanish Missions. It was founded in 1776 by Father Junipero Serra. There have been three churches at the mission. The original Great Stone Church reveals itself only in ruins. There was also a similar structure, the new seven-domed parish church with a 104-foot bell tower, and "Padre Serra's Church," which remains in daily use as it has since 1778.

The ten-acre site contains museum rooms devoted to American Indian, and Spanish and Mexican periods of domination. Gardens, arches and Moorish fountains grace the grounds.

The mission and museum rooms are closed Good Friday afternoon, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Admission is free but donations are accepted.

Location: Two blocks W of Hwy 74 and I-5, San Juan Capistrano California 92675 Telephone 714-248-2048

Other upcoming events include: San Francisco Jazz Festival San Francisco continuing thru November 21 Sandhill Crane Festival Lodi continuing thru November 9