San Juan Capistrano

City in southwestern California, 5 km/3 mi from the Pacific Ocean, halfway between Los Angeles and San Diego; population (1990) 26,200. It grew up around its mission (1776), and is today largely a residential and resort community, with some light industry.

In 1812 an earthquake destroyed much of the mission's Great Stone Church, but it was partly restored, and other buildings survived.

Migrating swallows arrive from South America every year on 19 March, St Joseph's Day, to nest in the ruins of the church, and leave on 23 October, the day of St John's (San Juan's) death. According to legend, their arrival has been delayed only once, by a storm at sea.