July 5th

We decided to visit the San Juan Capistrano mission. The last time I was here I was a young boy so was looking forward to seeing the mission again and seeing how well my memory remembered it. San Juan Capistrano Mission is famous for its swallows, who fly south every year on October 23 and return on March 19. Legend says the swallows took up residence here to escape an innkeeper who kept destroying their nests. The swallows arrive at San Juan Capistrano Mission in groups and make their nests from mud and saliva, building them under the eaves of the buildings.
July 5th.
The new church alter.
July 5th.
This is the new church at the mission. It was built in 2007.
July 5th.
The new church.
July 5th.
The new church.
July 5th.
The new church.
July 5th.
Father Junipero Serra who founded the mission in 1776.
July 5th.
The new church.
July 5th.
The new church.
July 5th.
The old mission.
July 5th.
Lily's in the fountain at the entrance to the mission.
July 5th.
A nice cool place to sit during the hot summer day.
July 5th.
Remains of the old mission destroyed during an earthquake in 1812. The church was not rebuilt.
July 5th.
The bells of the original church.
July 5th.
Father Junipero Serra.
July 5th.
I love flowers and these are simply beautiful.
July 5th.
The mission grounds.
July 5th.
Church bell.
July 5th.
San Juan Capistrano.
July 5th.
Church bells.
July 5th.
San Juan Capistrano.