Mission Dolores

Overview

Mission San Francisco de Asís (Mission Dolores) is the oldest intact building in San Francisco, founded on June 29, 1776 — five days before the Declaration of Independence. Its thick adobe walls and original timber ceiling have survived 250 years of earthquakes.

Highlights

• Original Chapel: The 1791 adobe chapel with its original painted ceiling by Ohlone artisans — one of the most authentic colonial-era interiors in California.
• Cemetery: The atmospheric old cemetery contains the graves of the city's earliest settlers, surrounded by a lush garden.
• Basilica: The adjacent 1918 basilica features elaborate Churrigueresque ornamentation and beautiful stained glass windows.

History

Founded by Father Francisco Palóu as the sixth of the 21 California missions. It is the birthplace of San Francisco — the city grew around this site. The original adobe structure survived the 1906 earthquake unscathed while the surrounding city burned.

Visitor Tips

• Combine with Mission District: The mission is the perfect starting point for exploring the vibrant Mission District neighborhood.
• Small Museum: A small museum displays artifacts from the mission's history and the native Ohlone people.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.