Help preserve historic Mission San Juan Capistrano by making a one-time donation to our Stay Open/Greatest Need Campaign or to a specific causes such as Preservation, Adopt-A-Class, Museum Collection Conservation or Museum Development.

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Become a Member

100% of your support directly funds on-going preservation and conservation of this Mission. Members receive unlimited visits, invitations to special events and a 10% discount at the Mission Store. Join our 10,000 Members! Photo Credit: @jengagliardiphoto

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Planned Giving

Consider the Mission in your estate planning with a future gift through a bequest, life insurance, trust arrangement, retirement funds or make an outright direct gift to the Mission. Help sustain the relevance and vibrancy of this Mission.

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Shop

Net proceeds from purchases at the Mission Store help protect the religious and historic significance of Mission San Juan Capistrano and further educational programs, exhibits and preservation efforts. The Mission Store promotes local, national and international artisans.

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The History of Mission San Juan Capistrano

Mission San Juan Capistrano, historic landmark and museum, is the Birthplace of Orange County. It was founded more than two hundred years ago as the 7th of 21 missions statewide and features a chapel still standing where Saint Serra once celebrated Mass. Today, it is a monument to California’s multi-cultural history, embracing its Native American, Spanish, Mexican and European heritage. Originally built as a self sufficient community by Spanish Padres and Native Americans, the Mission was a center for agriculture, industry, education and religion. Famous for the Annual Return of the Swallows, Mission San Juan Capistrano is the “Jewel of the California Missions” and welcomes over 300,000 visitors each year.

Explore the History

Read the Swallows Story

Mission Report Resources