Historic Monterey

Monterey is one of California's oldest towns. Spanish explorer Sebastián Vizcaíno first came here in 1602 and the Spanish returned in 1770, creating their first military settlement (presidio). Within a few years, a mission was built nearby in what is now the town of Carmel. The building shown is the headquarters of the Monterey State Historic Park and the nearby customs house is the state's oldest government building.