California's colorful history a special one even by american standard,gives a unique flavor to its customs and lifestyle. In 1768 they began the famous mission system along the EI Camio Real,now U.S. Highway 101 and this was followed by the establishment of the fortified trading posts at san francisco and Monterey and the first cities at Los Angeles and San Jose.
Spain's king granted vast ranchos to favored civil and military officers. Many streets, towns and landmarks in the state still bear their names. The distinctive architectural style, the rambling, cool, thick walled adobe structure with its red tile roof, dates from the Spanish period.