Spain controled most of California in the 1700’s and the Spanish Franciscans friars founded over 12 missions intent upon converting the Native Americans to Christianity. The Old Mission of Santa Barbara was the 10th such mission and is considered the Queen of them all due to her white walls and the influence of Italian archecture. It was started in 1786 added to, repaired, and restored through the years but the original building is still evident.
It is an active catholic church with its own cemetery, friary, museum and gift shop. As evidenced by the tour buses, it is a popular stop in town. The chapel is beautiful with lots of colors. The statuary depicts Saint Frances of Assisi and Santa Clair of Assisi in one apse and Jesus and Mary Magdaline at the tomb.
We also took a short drive down the coast to the small fishing and resort community of Carpenteria. We took a long walk in the crisp ocean air along the beautiful beach on the nice boardwalk.
Today we are moving over the mountains into the Santa Ynez valley. They have some really good wine in this area so we might have to do some tasting.
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