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Serra MuseumJunípero Serra Museum, in Presidio Park2727 Presidio Drive The Junípero Serra Museum, in Presidio Park, is one of the most familiar landmarks in San Diego. As a major symbol of the city, it stands atop the hill recognized as the site where California began. It was here in 1769 that a Spanish Franciscan missionary, Father Junípero Serra, with a group of soldiers led by Gaspar de Portolá, established Alta California’s first mission and presidio (fort). On July 16, 1769, near the site where the museum now stands, Fr. Serra founded the Mission San Diego de Alcalá. Often confused for the Mission, the Serra Museum was built between 1928-1929 for the purpose of housing and showcasing the collection of the San Diego Historical Society, which was founded in 1928. The structure was designed by architect, William Templeton Johnson, using Spanish Revival architecture, to resemble the early missions that once dominated the landscape of Southern California. Open: *Please Note: November through May, the museum may be closed until 12noon on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays for our school education programming. Please call 619-297-3258 for opening hours during these months. The Serra Museum is temporarily closed for building maintenance. Please check back soon for updated information or call (619) 232-6203. |