La Purisima Mission

La Purisima Mission is a restored Spanish mission complex with ten original buildings spread across a large property northeast of the original settlement location. The structures showcase typical Spanish colonial architecture with attached workshops, living quarters, and agricultural areas.

The mission was founded in 1787 and relocated to its current location in 1813 after an earthquake destroyed the original structures. This move led to a complete rebuilding with new facilities that visitors see today.

The buildings, gardens, and workshops show how Spanish missionaries and Chumash people lived and worked side by side. You can see the everyday tasks they performed, from farming to crafts, still reflected in the layout today.

Visitors can explore the furnished buildings on their own or participate in events that show how people lived at the mission. An information center on-site provides background details and helps you plan your visit.

The mission maintains traditional livestock and crops that reflect Spanish colonial farming practices from the era. These living animals and plants help visitors understand what was actually raised and grown for daily food and work.