Mission San Gabriel Arcángel was the 4th of the California Missions, and was well known for its winery. Mission grapes are a variety of Vitis vinifera introduced from Spain to the western coasts of North and South America by Catholic New World missionaries for use in making sacramental, table, and fortified wines. This old gnarled vine looks like it might date back to the first settlers here in 1771 !

There are just a few small bunches of grapes in the upper right hand corner; I suspect that such an old vine produces more shade than grapes....

Tags:   CA California Missions Junipero Serra Mission San Gabriel Arcángel Roman Catholic Parish historic landmark 4th fourth trail founded 1771 indians el camino real 4B4A6098_099_100_101_102_tonemapped ancient vines grapes wine winery gnarled leaves

© All Rights Reserved

The inner courtyard of the San Gabriel Mission is a maze of vines, succulents, plants, brick-lined paths and murals, echoing nearly 250 years of history.

Tags:   CA California Missions Junipero Serra Mission San Gabriel Arcángel Roman Catholic Parish historic landmark 4th fourth trail founded 1771 indians el camino real 4B4A6108_09_10_11_12_tonemapped gates adobe wall fence

© All Rights Reserved

A collection of ancient books is housed in the museum at the San Gabriel Mission; this one is from 1700. Shot through dusty glass in a very dark room. But not too noisy at ISO 4000 !

Tags:   CA California Missions Junipero Serra Mission San Gabriel Arcángel Roman Catholic Parish historic landmark 4th fourth trail founded 1771 indians el camino real 4B4A6126 crucifix jesus cross

© All Rights Reserved

San Gabriel is a large, well preserved mission that is still very vital to the community.

The last Franciscan withdrew in 1852 and in 1855, the U.S. Land Commission awarded the property to this diocese. The Claretian Priests, who have administered the Mission since 1908, have kept it in excellent repair. The Claretians, along with the laity, have made the Mission, again, a strong spiritual center in the valley.

Tags:   CA California Missions Junipero Serra Mission San Gabriel Arcángel Roman Catholic Parish historic landmark 4th fourth trail founded 1771 indians el camino real 4B4A6134 clear day blue sky

© All Rights Reserved

San Gabriel is the 4th of the 21 California Missions, founded in 1771, and located in southern California near Pasadena. It is a very active parish with a school and extensive grounds.

Tags:   CA California Missions Junipero Serra Mission San Gabriel Arcángel Roman Catholic Parish historic landmark 4th fourth trail founded 1771 indians el camino real 4B4A6150 altar cruciix

© All Rights Reserved