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Historic site · Santa Maria, California
La Purísima Mission
Franciscan mission founded in 1787, rebuilt in its current location after the 1812 earthquake. The adobe buildings, restored in the 1930s, are in a state park near Lompoc, with gardens, livestock and trails.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About La Purísima Mission
The Misión la Purísima Concepción de María Santísima was founded on December 8, 1787 by Father Fermín Lasuén, successor to Junípero Serra, as the 11th of the 21 Spanish missions in California. The land belonged to the Chumash, who spoke the language now called Purisimeño.
The December 1812 earthquake destroyed the first mission, located within present-day Lompoc. In 1813 it was rebuilt about 6 km to the northeast, in the valley of La Cañada de los Berros, where it stands today.
Dilapidated through the 19th century, the adobe buildings were reconstructed between 1934 and 1941 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, under the direction of the National Park Service. The state park, created in 1935, covers about 780 hectares, and ten buildings are restored and furnished.
The animals in the corrals represent the mission’s herds in the 1820s, and on some days volunteers demonstrate period trades such as weaving, pottery and blacksmithing. Trails cross the valley around the mission.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
2 to 3 hours.
Best time
In the morning, allowing time for the guided tour and a walk. The visitor center usually closes on Mondays; check hours before you go.
How to get there
It is on Purisima Road, about 5 km northeast of downtown Lompoc and about 35 km from Santa Maria by car, via Highway 1.
Tip
The park has a separate entrance fee; check the current rate. Bring water and a hat for the trails and check the schedule for days with trade demonstrations.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about La Purísima Mission
When was La Purísima Mission founded?
On December 8, 1787. After the 1812 earthquake it was rebuilt in 1813 at the present site, northeast of Lompoc.
Is La Purísima Mission original?
The adobe buildings were reconstructed between 1934 and 1941 over the ruins of the 1813 mission by the Civilian Conservation Corps.
How long does a visit to La Purísima Mission take?
2 to 3 hours for the restored buildings, gardens and corrals; more if you include the trails.
What is the distance between Santa Maria and La Purísima Mission?
About 35 km by road, near Lompoc, south of Santa Maria.