Carmel Mission Attractions & Landmark
Father Serra's Favorite
Carmel,
CA, 93923
United States
+1 831 624 1271
+1 831 624 8050
http://www.carmelmission.orgOverview
Also known as Mission Carmel Basilica and more formally, as Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo, this was the second of the nine missions founded by Father Junipero Serra. The area was originally chosen for its agricultural possibilities in 1771, but the temperate climate and exquisite landscape soon made it Father Serra's favorite. Indeed, he is buried, as per his wishes, in front of the church's main altar. The building, which fell into ruins in the 19th century and has since been completely restored, exhibits classic Mission-style, fortress-like architecture, with thick, bougainvillea-covered adobe walls and a central courtyard. A Moorish-style bell tower contains nine bells and is open to the public. Though some may find the climb up the steep staircase taxing, the views from that vantage point are magnificent.
I went on a field trip with my son's 4th grade class. It was beautiful. A great point of historical intrest. There is a great atmosphere there. The gardens were so pretty. The gift shop was very nice too, gifts from a few pennies to a few thousand dollars.
Took 100+/- pics in mid-afternoon. Fantastic!!! If you are a photographer, this is one place on the Monteray P. that is a must. The light is fabulous for photographing from 3-5 pm. Afterwards, go to Clint Eastwood's Hogs Breath saloon for a brew (on draft) to cap off and savor your day!
We went there on our honeymoon in 1973. Have since taken my children and grandchildren. The flowers in the courtyard were beautiful during our honeymoon but have never been the same since. It's still a beautiful place and fun to visit.
On our last day in Carmel we went to the Carmel mission. The amazing gardens where one thing but the basilica was a completely different thing. Not only did I lurn a lot of history I saw many things that went in a normal California mission. The organ player played the best music and everything was just relaxing and the apnosphere was very soothing.
This is a gorgeous mission in a gorgeous city. Although the city of Carmel is pricey; the Carmel Mission is free, historic, and beautifully maintained!
