"King of the Missions" aptly describes Mission San Luis Rey de Francia. Of the 21 missions sprinkled along California's coastline, it is the biggest in size and was remarkable for its productivity and large population.
Built in 1798 and shaped like a cross, San Luis Rey's distinguishing features make one impressive landmark. On the mission's grounds are a museum, church, cemetery, an elaborate aqueduct system, courtyard quad, and an open-air laundry area. Housed within the quad's 500-foot borders are a beautiful rose garden, the state's very first pepper tree, and the Well House. During the mission's earlier days, the quad also served as a bullfighting arena.
To the south of the mission is a shallow valley that was used as the laundry room. Also referred to by the Spanish term lavanderia, this is the garden where Indians once used water from the mission's irrigation system to wash their clothes.
Some structures remain in use. The mission's church can be reserved for weddings, funerals, and other special events. On display in the mission's museum are exhibits focusing on the mission's uniquely colorful history, and collections include artifacts from the Native American, Spanish Mission, Mexican Secularization, and American Military periods.
San Luis Rey was named after France's great King Saint Louis IX and patron Saint of the third order of Franciscans, and lives up to its majestic reputation.
Attraction Information
- Hours:
- 10am to 4pm daily
- Admission
- Adults: $6, Youth: $4, Family: $25, Seniors: $5, Active Military: $5, Ages 5 and under: Free
- Contact:
- Location: 4050 Mission Avenue, Oceanside, CA
- Phone: 760-757-3651
- Website: www.sanluisrey.org
