National Register of Historic Places (1971). Mission San Juan
Capistrano is famous for the return of the swallows on Saint
Joseph's Day (March 19). The ruined old stone church was the
largest mission structure built in California. The extant Serra
Chapel is one of the oldest buildings in California, and the
only one still standing where Fr. Serra is known to have
performed Mass. Mission San Juan Capistrano is the seventh
mission, founded November 1, 1776 by Fr. Serra. Named for St.
John of Capistran, a 14th-century Italian theologian. Stone
church was built 1797-1806; but destroyed by the 1812
earthquake. The mission was secularized in 1833, sold in 1845,
and returned to Church in 1865. Structure and Condition: - The
extensive stabilization (1897-2004) of the old stone church
ruins is complete. Current structural condition of the Serra
Chapel is poor, needing roof and arcade replacement and
extensive structural repairs. Immediate and Long-Term Funding
Needs: - Extensive art and artifact collections need conse