Book DescriptionThe missions and presidios of California are among the state?s oldest structures and are the most visited historical monuments. These notable buildings are an integral part of California?s history. The state?s recorded history essentially began with the Spanish missions along the ambitious chain of 21 missions on El Camino Real (The Royal Highway) and the men who founded them. The missions and presidios are a fascinating study in contrasts. Varying in size and architecture, churches range from small (at Pala) and modest (at Soledad) to opulent (at San Luis Rey) and elegant (at Santa Barbara.) Yet each represents a pivotal time when the entire western world changed. Politics and ideas redistributed power, and ambitious, independent thinkers formed a new nation. "California Missions and Presidios" is a gorgeous book that presents the history of these intriguing sanctuaries of peace and beauty. The eye-popping photography of Alastair Worden...