1. Founding:
- Mission San Diego was founded on July 16, 1769, by the Franciscan friars of the Roman Catholic Church, led by Father Junipero Serra.
- It was the seventh California mission established along the El Camino Real (King's Highway) in present-day San Diego.
2. Dedication:
- The mission is named in honor of Saint Didacus of Alcalá, a Franciscan friar from Spain.
- The full name of the mission is "Mission San Diego de Alcalá."
3. Original Location:
- The original site of the mission was present-day Presidio Park in downtown San Diego.
- Due to challenging water access, conflict with Native Americans, and other difficulties, the mission was relocated to its current location in 1774.
4. Current Site:
- Mission San Diego is situated in the Old Town neighborhood of San Diego, about three miles from the original location.
- It is surrounded by a peaceful cemetery and beautiful gardens, offering serene grounds to visit.
5. Architecture:
- The current mission's adobe structure was mainly constructed between 1813 and 1815.
- The mission complex includes a church, a residence for the friars, workshops, living quarters for the Native Americans, a kitchen, and a granary.
6. Native American Tribes:
- Mission San Diego primarily served the Kumeyaay Native American people, also known as the Diegueno Indians, who inhabited the region.
- Thousands of Native Americans were converted to Catholicism and taught European skills and trades.
7. Secularization and Return:
- Like other California missions, Mission San Diego underwent a period of secularization during the 1830s, when it was transferred from religious control to the Mexican government.
- The mission was abandoned and fell into ruin until it was returned to the Catholic Church in 1862.
8. Restoration:
- Extensive restoration efforts were undertaken to preserve the mission's historic buildings, gardens, and artifacts.
- Much of the restoration was completed during the early 20th century, and the mission is now a designated California Historical Landmark and National Historic Landmark.
9. Catholic Parish:
- Mission San Diego de Alcala continues to serve as an active Catholic parish, offering daily mass, confessions, weddings, and other religious services to the community.
- The mission also hosts various cultural and educational events throughout the year.
10. Symbol of History:
- Mission San Diego de Alcala stands as a symbol of the early Spanish colonial period in California, representing the blending of European and Native American cultures.
- It is a popular destination for tourists, researchers, and history enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the rich history of San Diego and the mission system.
