The Mission of Our Lady of Loreto, named for Our Lady of Loreto in Italy, is the first of the California missions and the 300-year-old jewel of Loreto. From this original settlement, the Mission system spread throughout the peninsula and up the western coast of North America as far north as San Francisco, bringing with it art, culture and religion, whose influences can still be found in life throughout Baja and California today.

La Misión de Nuestra Señora de Loreto
Founded in 1697, this historic mission houses a museum that recounts the history of the native peoples, the colonization of Baja and the exploits of the Jesuit missionaries. The dome of the bell tower rises above the town, telling its visitors to enter its peaceful interior and tree-filled courtyard. The recently restored church itself is a piece of living history and the museum is an excellent place to discover the roots of the culture and art of Loreto.

La Misión de San Javier
Just 23 miles west of Loreto sits the Mission of San Javier, which was established in 1699 and is considered one of Baja’s most spectacular missions because it is so well preserved. Founded in 1699 by Sicilian priest Francesco Piccolo, this beautiful church stands in the heart of the Sierra de la Giganta mountains, set high in a lush mountain valley beneath towering volcanic walls. A day trip to San Javier provides a treasured memory for those who take the time to seek it out.