Mission San Diego de Alcal�: Not Your Average 18th-Century Spa (But They Did Have Great Wine)
So you're thinking about swinging by Mission San Diego de Alcal�, huh? Maybe picturing yourself lounging by a mission pool, sipping sangria (hey, it's a free country...well, kind of). But hold on to your horses (or should we say mules?), because there was a whole lot more going down at this historic site than just religious retreats.
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| What Other Work Was Done At San Diego De Alcala |
From Humble Beginnings to Wine-tastic Endeavors
Father Serra and his crew rocked up in 1769 with a mission: spread the gospel, convert the locals, and basically turn California into a Spanish colony. But they quickly learned that preaching on an empty stomach wasn't the most effective strategy. So, what did these resourceful missionaries do? Get to work, of course!
QuickTip: Look for repeated words — they signal importance.
Vineyards of Fury (But Also Delicious Wine): Yep, you read that right. Mission San Diego de Alcal� boasts the title of "California's First Winery." Father Serra himself planted those initial vines, hoping to recreate a taste of home (and maybe make a little sacramental wine on the side). While the first attempt didn't quite take root, by 1781, the mission was producing enough vino to make Dionysus jealous.
Horsepower and More: Forget Uber, these guys had their own personal stable. Mission San Diego de Alcal� became a breeding ground for horses and mules, supplying these essential critters to other missions throughout California. We can only imagine the epic wagon train rides these bad boys took part in.
From Soap to Soap Operas (Okay, Maybe Not Quite): The mission wasn't just about muscles and merlot. The residents became skilled artisans, producing everything from soap and candles to textiles and leather goods. We wouldn't be surprised if there were some serious craft fairs happening on the mission grounds (minus the artisanal avocado toast, of course).
So, the next time you visit Mission San Diego de Alcal�, remember – it wasn't all about prayer and piety. These guys were the original California hustlers, running a multi-faceted operation that helped shape the state's history.
Tip: Reread the opening if you feel lost.
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FAQ: Mission San Diego de Alcal� - Beyond the Basics
How to become a Mission San Diego de Alcal� artisan (time travel optional): While time travel isn't part of the official tour package, you can learn about the traditional crafts practiced at the mission and even try your hand at some of them during special events.
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How to sneak a taste of mission wine (strictly not recommended): Unfortunately, the mission's vineyards are long gone. But fear not, wine lover! California's wine industry is still thriving, and there are plenty of amazing wineries to explore nearby.
QuickTip: Slow down when you hit numbers or data.
How to channel your inner vaquero (cowboy): Saddle up (figuratively speaking) and learn about the mission's role in horse and mule breeding. Maybe you can even take a horseback riding tour of the area to get a real feel for the Wild West (minus the outlaws...hopefully).
How to score some mission-made soap (the legal way): While you can't exactly buy a bar of soap straight from the missionaries, there are shops selling replicas of mission-made goods, including soaps and candles. So you can take a little piece of history home with you (without breaking any laws).
How to impress your friends with your Mission San Diego de Alcal� knowledge: Drop some knowledge bombs about the mission's role in California's first winery and its bustling artisan scene. You'll be the star of the next trivia night for sure.
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