This is the fourth Mission church that my family visited so far. Located at Carmel by the Sea, this Mission has an active community, beautiful church and charming town.

It was founded by Fr. Serra in June 3, 1770. Mission San Carlos Borromeo del Rio Carmelo become Friar Serra’s headquarters for the entire mission chains. He lived in a tiny cell about a hundred yards from the church. It was a small room, with only a cot of boards, a single blanket, a table and chair, a chest, a candlestick, and a gourd. Friar Serra was rarely there as he spent a good deal of his time traveling to each of the missions spread out over five hundred miles. It was the 2nd mission in the 21 mission chain in Alta California. It was named for Saint Charles Borromeo, Archbishop of Milan.

Junipero Serra+ RIP 1713-1784

Photo frame of Fr. Junipero Serra. His Tomb is located at the foot of the altar together with two other Franciscan friars.

Entrance of the Basilica of Mission San Carlos

Church bell Circa 1807

An old bell by the baptismal font

Courtyard fountain

Interior of the Basilica of San Carlos

Entrance Gate statue

Old grave site at the back of the church. Notice the white sea shells lined up at each tomb