Missions of California - Santa Bárbara

Mission Santa Barbara was founded on December 4, 1786, by Father Fermin de Lasuen. Named for St. Barbara, this "Queen of the Missions" is best known for its unique architecture. The twin bell towers and ornate Roman temple facade were built by the Chumash Indians.

The Chumash were friendly and willing to help the padres. By 1807 there were nearly 1700 converts living at the mission. The padres taught them to build an elaborate water system that was so extraordinary that parts of it are still used today by the city of Santa Barbara.

The first church, constructed of adobe brick, was completed in 1789. A second church built 5 years later was destroyed by an earthquake in 1812, leading to the construction of the church recognized today. An earthquake in 1925 caused a toppling of the bell towers. Reconstruction using reinforced steel caused concrete deterioration, but this was quickly corrected.

Despite secularization, Santa Barbara was never allowed to lapse into decay. It has remained in constant use by the Franciscans since the founding day. Today the mission still ministers to the Indians of the Southwest and also houses the parish of St. Barbara.