Mission San Fernando Rey de España: Founded September 8, 1797

The Mission San Fernando Rey de España (Mission San Fernando) was established on September 8, 1797 by Father Fermín Lasuén, successor to Junípero Serra as Presidente of the California missions.

Key Facts

• Number: 17th of 21 Alta California missions.
• Location: Mission Hills, Los Angeles (San Fernando Valley).
• Named for: King Ferdinand III of Castile (San Fernando).
• Peak population: ~1,000 Tongva (Fernandeño) neophytes (1819).
• Secularized: 1834 (Mexican government).
• Restored: 20th century; active parish, museum, archives.

Architecture

Long convento (monastery) with iconic 21-arched colonnade—one of the longest adobe structures in CA. Church rebuilt 1970s after 1971 Sylmar earthquake damage.

Visit

15151 San Fernando Mission Blvd, Mission Hills, CA 91345. Daily tours, gift shop, gardens. Annual "Mission San Fernando Fiesta" (late Sept).