Explore Mission Santa Clara: History and Heritage

Mission Santa Clara was the eighth mission built in California, founded on January 12, 1777, by Father Thomas de la Pena.

Interesting Facts about Mission Santa Clara

Mission Santa Clara is unique as it is the only Spanish mission located on a university campus. Moreover, it has rung its bells every evening at 8:30 p.m. for over 200 years. The mission was named after St. Francis of Assisi’s childhood friend, making it the first mission in California to honor a woman.

Where Is Mission Santa Clara Located?

The mission is situated at 500 El Camino Real, on the Santa Clara University campus. You can find details regarding hours and directions on the Mission Santa Clara Website.

History of Mission Santa Clara: 1769 to Present Day

Europeans first arrived in the Santa Clara Valley in 1769, discovering a lush landscape named Llano de los Robles, or Plain of the Oaks. Consequently, in 1774, an expedition was conducted to locate potential sites for future missions, ultimately selecting a site along the Guadalupe River.

Father Thomas de la Pena officially founded Mission Santa Clara de Asis on January 12, 1777, with soldiers and priests accompanying him.

Mission Santa Clara Layout, Floor Plan, Buildings and Grounds

Throughout its history, Mission Santa Clara has witnessed the construction of five church buildings, with the initial two being temporary structures abandoned due to flooding. The first permanent church, initiated by Father Martuia, was completed in 1784, supported by bells gifted by King Carlos III of Spain.

Unfortunately, an earthquake in 1818 rendered the church irreparable, leading to the construction of a temporary church that lasted until 1867. Most notably, a new church was built starting in 1822, reaching completion in 1825.

Mission Santa Clara Exterior

Among the historical artifacts, three bells from the mission period were cast in 1798, 1799, and 1805. Furthermore, King Alfonso XIII of Spain donated another bell to Santa Clara University in 1929. The church’s roof retains the original tiles from the 1822 structure, which are presently stored due to maintenance issues.

Mission Santa Clara Interior

A fire in October 1926 destroyed the church, although several statues and paintings were saved. When rebuilding the church, it was enlarged to serve as the university chapel. Although the front tower was restored to its original design, the interior features copies of the original décor.

Mission Santa Clara Ceiling Decoration

The beautiful ceiling, featuring a reproduction of angels gazing down, was originally painted by Augustine Davila in 1825.

Mission Santa Clara Cattle Brand

The image above depicts the cattle brand of Mission Santa Clara, influenced by samples displayed at Mission San Francisco Solano and Mission San Antonio. Although various mission brands incorporate the letter “A” in diverse forms, the origin of this specific brand remains unknown.