The history of Monterey County is deeply tied to the history of California's missions. Within these beautiful buildings you can hear echoes of a history that dates back before the founding of the United States.
The second Spanish mission ever founded in California was established in 1770 in Monterey, just steps from what is now El Estero Park, and was moved to Carmel the following year. The Jolon mission, third established and widely considered the most successful, was founded in 1771. In total, Monterey County is home to three of California's 21 missions, and two of the first three missions.
Franciscan Padre Junípero Serra, who established the second and third California missions, is interred at the Basilica Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo in Carmel.
Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 1770, Monterey, CA 93942 1-877-MONTEREY info@mccvb.org
In partnership with Monterey County and the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Salinas,
Sand City, Seaside, Soledad, Pebble Beach, Moss Landing, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, and Salinas Valley.
© Copyright 2009 Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau
