The Destination

Greetings, Blitzers! When we last met, I had just taken the Metrolink train into Los Angeles for a PhotoBlitz adventure. But where was I exactly? Right here.

Ta-dah! Union Station, Los Angeles, CA. Just minutes from the downtown civic center, this city landmark was built in 1939 and is right across the street from another Los Angeles treasure and my real destination: the Los Angeles Plaza Historic District, aka "El Pueblo de Los Angeles State Historic Park." Why was I there? Because it's awesome, that's why! Plus, there was a fiesta happening, making the place even more awesome. But first things first.

Whenever I make my way down here (and, sadly, it's been way too many years since I last visited), I always like to stop by the church: La Iglesia de Nuestra Señora la Reina de Los Angeles, aka "The Church of Our Lady Queen of Angels."

Although the whole plaza is vibrant and full of energy, there is something about the historic Catholic church which draws me. It's a very cool, old building. Emphasis on old. Really, really, really, old. Founded in 1814, the current building dates back to around 1822, which was a replacement of the original adobe church. Though it's had a few touch-ups and add-ons over the years, the essential beauty of the place remains.

What can I say? I dig it. It's probably because the energy of the community is focused right here. This is the place where people come together to celebrate new beginnings and say goodbyes, share their joys and sorrows, their hopes and prayers. This is where life, from beginning to end, is most deeply experienced.

La Iglesia is now, as it was since it was founded, the true heart of this community. And before you explore and experience El Pueblo -- or any community, really -- it's always a good idea to start at its center.

Tomorrow, the adventure continues. Hasta later, Blitzers!