Mission Santa Clara de Asis was established on January 12, 1777. In 1784 the mission had to be abandoned because of damage from a great flood. A new site on higher ground was soon occupied, with the help of skilled artisans from the pueblo whose work gave the buildings a much more professional appearance. In 1818 an earthquake effectively destroyed the mission again. With seemingly boundless energy the padres built a third time, with everything completed by 1823.
The present building at the site of the original Mission Santa Clara is a replica of the third building, built in 1823. Located on the grounds of Santa Clara University, you can find relics that include three bells given to the mission by the king of Spain. The original garden is in full bloom April through May and is open to visitors.