The San Rafael Mission, officially known as Mission San Rafael Arcángel, was founded in 1817 in present-day California. It served as a hospital and a way station for travelers between the northern and southern missions. The mission was named after Saint Raphael, the archangel, and played a crucial role in the Spanish colonization of the region. The mission's architecture featured a simple design, typical of the era, with adobe walls and a thatched roof. Although it was originally established as a temporary site, it became a permanent mission in 1822. Today, the San Rafael Mission is a historical landmark, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the area.