Touring San Francisco's oldest building

Built in 1776, Mission Dolores is at the center of San Francisco, and is the namesake of the Mission neighborhood. Originally, King Carlos III of Spain ordered 21 missions be constructed in California, before the signing of our Declaration of Independence. It was Father Junipero Serra who opened the mission, to baptize and serve as a church along with 198 Spanish priests. The church, which still stands now, has a remarkable architecture. The inside ceiling is supported by redwood beams and rawhide leather cords. The many murals and artwork inside tell the nature of worship involving Christ back then, which varies from current practices.

Open daily for tours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., this site is visited by over 200,000 people each year and is located at 3321 16th Street. Call (415) 621-8203 for more information.