Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
DON'T MISS
FIESTA DE LA GOLONDRINAS
Swallows return to nest in the walls of Mission San Juan Capistrano every year around
March 19, the feast of Saint Joseph, after wintering in South America. Their flight covers
about 7500 miles each way. The highlight of the town's month-long
Festival of the Swal-
lows
is the big parade and outdoor mercado(market), held on a Saturday in mid-March.
Sights & Activities
Mission San Juan Capistrano
CHURCH
adult/child $9/6; 9am-5pm)
Padre Junipero Serra founded the mission on November 1, 1776, and tended it personally
for many years. Particularly moving are the towering remains of the Great Stone Church,
almost completely destroyed by a powerful earthquake on December 8, 1812. The
Serra
Chapel
- whitewashed outside with restored frescoes inside - is believed to be the oldest
existing building in California (1778). Plan on spending at least an hour poking around the
sprawling mission's tiled roofs, covered arches, lush gardens, fountains and courtyards -
including the padre's quarters, soldiers' barracks and the cemetery.
Admission includes a worthwhile free audio tour with interesting stories narrated by
locals.
Los Rios Historic District
HISTORIC BUILDINGS
One block southwest of the Mission, next to the Capistrano train depot, this peaceful as-
semblage of a few dozen historic cottages and adobes now mostly houses cafes and gift
shops. Pick up a free walking-tour guide at the information kiosk off Verdugo St, by the
railroad tracks.
Eating & Drinking
