Watch the map below as the missions appear in the order in which they were founded.
Once the animation is complete, you can click the icons on the map to identify the missions.
Refresh the page in your browser to repeat the map animation.
Contrary to what many people think, the California missions were not built “in order” from South to North. Missions were built at strategic locations first, and then the gaps were filled as opportunities arose.
The animated mission map, below, will let you watch as the missions are built!
You can also visit the Mission List to see more details on each of the missions, or the Mission Timeline to learn more about historical events affecting the missions.
Also see our Animated Presidio Map.
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