Statue of Junípero Serra

The Statue of Junípero Serra depicts a figure with raised hands, wearing robes carved with fine detail and an expressive face. It sits on a pedestal within Golden Gate Park, surrounded by walking paths and garden areas.

Douglas Tilden created this bronze sculpture in the early 1900s to honor the Spanish missionary who founded California's mission system. The work captures a moment when the early colonial period of California was being actively commemorated.

The statue serves as a focal point for reflection on California's founding religious missions and the diverse perspectives people hold about colonial expansion. Visitors pass through this area while exploring one of San Francisco's most active green spaces.

The statue sits in the western section of the park and is accessible via several walking paths that pass through garden areas. Visitors should explore this area during daylight hours, as it is located in an open, well-lit section.

The missionary depicted was canonized by Pope Francis in 2015, becoming the first Hispanic saint from North America. This religious designation brought the statue into focus within global conversations about colonial and religious history.

Creator: Douglas Tilden

GPS coordinates: 37.77183,-122.46657

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09