El Presidio de Santa Bárbara

Presidio is the Spanish term for a fortified base. This one in particular was built in the days when Spain settled in California. Built in 1782, it was used to defend the Second Military District. The presidio was built in large part by the Chumash tribe. Two original sections of the quadrangle remain - El Cuartel and Canedo Adobe. El Cuartel is the oldest building in Santa Barbara and the second oldest in California.

(Submitted by Brenda Rios)