Origins of the Mission Style
The California Mission Revival style is rooted in the architecture of the 21 missions built by Franciscan monks along the El Camino Real (The Royal Road) in California. These missions were constructed to serve as religious, social, and agricultural centers for Native Americans and European settlers. The original mission buildings, though simple and practical, embodied the Spanish Colonial aesthetic, which was deeply influenced by Moorish, Mediterranean, and indigenous Mexican architecture.
This revival style gained prominence during the late 19th century when architects and designers, particularly in Southern California, sought to reclaim and celebrate the region’s Spanish colonial heritage. The 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago helped boost interest in regional styles, including the Mission Revival, showcasing it as part of the broader Arts and Crafts movement that emphasized local craftsmanship and authenticity.