The Mission Carmel, properly known as the San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission, was established in 1770 by Father Junipero Serra (1713-84). He is buried at the foot of the altar in the basilica, which served as the administrative center for all California missions until it was secularized and abandoned in 1834. The basilica is topped with a Moorish tower containing 11 bells. It was restored in 1924 and today functions again as an active Catholic church. A small museum is situated in the former living quarters; Serra's own quarters are preserved as they were when he died there in 1784. His statue stands in the front courtyard. Other courtyards are studded with cactuses. Monday-Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm, Sunday 10:30 am-5 pm. US$5. 3080 Rio Road (off Highway 1), Carmel. Phone 831-624-1271. http://www.carmelmission.org.
