Santa Barbara is filled with beautiful Spanish influenced historic landmarks and architecturally rich buildings with the famous red tiled rooftops. Our radiant and charming town has proudly earned its name as the “American Riviera.” There are many homes and estates that are available for sale in the Santa Barbara real estate market that display elements from this beautiful and charming style. So the next time you feel like enjoying a little stroll in history here are 3 beautiful architectures in Santa Barbara for you to explore.
1. The Santa Barbara Mission
2. Santa Barbara Courthouse
3. El Presidio de Santa Barbara
1. Santa Barbara Mission
The gorgeous Old Mission Santa Barbara also known as the ‘Queen of the Missions’ and was founded in 1786 by the Franciscan Friar Fermin de Lasuén, and was the tenth of twenty-one California Missions. The first nine Missions were founded by Padre Junipero Serra who died two years earlier. This historic landmark is one of the most photographed jewels in Santa Barbara. Strongly influenced by Roman design, the fathers used simple local materials and Spanish building techniques to complete this splendid mission. You can visit the museum, mausoleum and the impressive church daily. Opening hours and ticket prices are listed on their website. The spectacular rose garden is filled with hundreds of vibrant blooms and is also a dream-wedding destination.
2201 Laguna Street, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
santabarbaramission.org
2. Santa Barbara Courthouse
One of the most magnificent courthouses in the country was built in 1929 in a beautiful Spanish – Moorish architectural design. Filled with gorgeous handcrafted details, imported tiles and grandiose wrought iron chandeliers that are admired by visitors from allover the world. Every year hundreds of people choose this desitnation to get married in the famous Mural Room or in the lush green tropical garden.
Don’t miss the 80 foot bell tower where you can find breathtaking 360 degree views of the “American Riviera” and recognize famous buildings and charming arches from postcards and television. This landmark is open daily for the public, but make sure you don’t miss the 3:30 0r 4pm cut off time for tower visits.
1100 Anacapa Street, Santa Barbara, CA 923105
santabarbaracourthouse.org
3. El Presidio de Santa Barbara
The Santa Barbara Presidio one of the most significant landmarks in town that was founded in 1782. This architectural treasure was built by the Spanish as one of the last four military fortresses. The buildings were strategically arranged in quadrangle to enclose the “Plaza de Armas” or the central “Parade” grounds. Lt. José Francisco de Ortega became the first Comandante of the El Presidio and in 1784 he was succeeded by Lt. Felipe de Goicoechea. Don’t miss the beautiful chapel which was the very first chapel for the people of Santa Barbara.
Since then, most of the buildings have been rebuilt and restored and filled with many unique original objects, artifacts. Today the grounds are still an active archeological dig. For more information about the Santa Barbara Trust for Historic Preservation please visit their website.
123 East Canon Perdido Street
sbthp.org
Hope you will have the chance to visit and revisit these 3 Beautiful Architectures in Santa Barbara.
Best,
Terry