Carmel Mission of St. Charles Borromeo, Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA Verified listing

Carmel Mission of St. Charles Borromeo, Carmel-by-the-Sea, USA

Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Río Carmelo is one of the most authentically restored Catholic mission churches in California. It is known in English as the Mission of Saint Charles Borromeo of the Carmel River. It stands near the mouth of Carmel Valley. The mission appears on the National Register of Historic Places. It is also a National Historic Landmark.

From 1797 to 1833, the mission led all Alta California missions. Therefore, it became the headquarters for the entire mission system. Saint Junípero Serra served as its leader from 1770 to 1784. After his death, Father Fermín Francisco de Lasuén took over. He then completed nine more missions. Together, they expanded the system across the region.

However, major changes came in 1833. After Mexico gained control, the government secularized the missions. As a result, they took land and power from the Church. Consequently, Carmel Mission fell into decline. By the mid-1800s, most buildings were in ruins. Fortunately, workers rebuilt the chapel roof in 1884. This effort stopped further damage.

In 1886, the Franciscans gave the mission to the Diocese of Monterey. Since then, it has served as a local parish. Although the buildings still needed work, hope returned.

Meanwhile, in 1931, restorer Harry Downie began his work. He studied original plans and rebuilt structures with care. For fifty years, he worked to revive the site. Therefore, the mission regained its historic charm.

Today, the mission stands as a symbol of California’s past. It is the only Spanish mission with its original bell and bell tower. In addition, it holds California’s first library. Each room tells a unique story. Altogether, they reflect a deep cultural legacy. Thus, visitors continue to explore, learn, and remember its rich history.

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