The missions—built between 1769 and 1823 and extending in a chain of 600 miles from Sonoma to San Diego—stand as symbols of California's Spanish colonial past. Pictured is San Miguel's bell tower.

Spanish missions that dot the landscape in California today exist as centers of historical interpretation. Visitors to California, residents of the state, and school children often turn to these sites ...

Elias Castillo, author of A Cross of Thorns: The Enslavement of California's Indians by the Spanish Missions will discuss how and why the missions were founded under the orders of Spanish King Carlos ...

Long before Napa made California wine famous, the roots of California wine were planted—literally—by Franciscan missionaries along the California Mission Trail. ByLayne Randolph, Contributor. Forbes ...

If you’re planning a trip to California, you won’t want to miss out on the state’s rich history and fascinating landmarks.