Mission Hill Historical District 

Mission Hill Historic District in Santa Cruz, California, is a neighborhood filled with history and architectural beauty. And two of its most prominent landmarks are the Historic Mission Santa Cruz and Holy Cross Church.

As you wander the streets, you’ll come across beautiful historic homes, including many Victorian-era cottages and larger Queen Anne-style houses. Each one is unique, with its personality and charm.

Holy Cross church is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture with pointed arches and ornate stained glass windows.

Mission Santa Cruz was established in 1791 by Spanish missionaries, and it was one of 21 missions built throughout California to convert indigenous people to Catholicism. The mission’s primary purpose was to create a self-sufficient community where the missionaries could teach the Ohlone people agriculture and other skills.

Today, the mission is a National Historic Landmark. Open to the public for tours. Visitors can explore the mission’s beautiful gardens are filled with native plants and flowers and learn about the history and culture of the Ohlone people.