Mission San Juan Capistrano

Today we visited the beautiful Mission San Juan Capistrano.  It's easy to forget that while our founding fathers were working to establish the United States of America, a group of Spanish missionaries were establishing a mission in what would eventually become one of the most influential states in the union.

The mission here is well cared for and preserved.  While we were visiting over 750 4th grade students from the local area were also there learning about California history.  They were great fun to watch and to talk with.
The mission grounds are well cared for and very accessible.  The school children are considered an important part of the park and were made very welcome as we were.  We very much enjoyed their enthusiasm and excitement.  What a treat!
I think we enjoyed the children as much as the old mission itself.  I can only imagine how much history these old buildings have seen.
The swallows are back and while the numbers may have decreased over the years the importance of the mission has not.
It was so nice to see all of the historical renovation that has occurred here.  We spent about 3 hours wandering about and listening to the history.  After the visit we had lunch in one of President Nixon's favorites restaurants nearby.  It was superb.
These photos really don't do it justice but the grounds are beautiful.  Everything we saw was easily accessible and tourist friendly.  Another great place to visit.