Mission San Juan Capistrano

A young girl runs past the blooming gardens inside Mission San Juan Capistrano. The gardens have helped make this mission among the state’s most popular.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The interior of the Serra Chapel, another structure named after Father Junipero Serra. This might be the last building in which Serra administered sacraments.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

A replica of the historic Great Stone Church is seen in front of all that remains of the original structure. The structure collapsed in the December earthquake of 1812.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Tourists take pictures among the remains of the Great Stone Church.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

Today’s Mission San Juan Capistrano features lush gardens.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

The gardens bloom near walls that are more than 200 years old.  (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)