Mission Dolores, San Francisco

Mission San Francisco de Asís, also known as Mission Dolores due to its proximity to Dolores Creek, stands as a venerable testament to Spanish Californian history, being the oldest surviving structure in San Francisco. On October 9, 1776, the mission was established by Padre Francisco Palóu, a faithful companion of Junípero Serra, and co-founder Fray Pedro Benito Cambón. Their mission was twofold - to bring Spanish settlers to Alta California and to spread the teachings of Catholicism among the local indigenous Californians, the Ohlone community. The present mission building, dedicated in 1791, became the second structure to grace the sacred site.

Adjacent to the historic mission lies the Mission Dolores Basilica, a splendid architectural marvel constructed in 1918. Adorned with an intricate California Churrigueresque style, this grander church replaced a brick parish from 1876 that succumbed to the devastating San Francisco earthquake of 1906. Notably, Pope Pius XII bestowed the prestigious title of a Catholic basilica upon this elaborate church in 1952, adding to its religious significance.

Mission Dolores attracts many visitors with its beautiful gardens and cemetery. The rose garden, a gift from the Golden Gate Rose Society, is meticulously tended to weekly. The property also houses an Indian ethno-botanic garden, offering insight into the region's indigenous history. The cemetery holds significance for notable San Franciscans, including Ohlone and Miwok settlers, founders of the mission, and other prominent figures buried there. Approximately 5,000 individuals have been laid to rest at the mission, with gravestones dating back to 1830.