Historical Landmarks in Palos Verdes
September 19, 2016 2:00 pm
The area we now know as Palos Verdes was once the homeland of the Tongva-Gabrieliño Native Americans, before becoming part of a Spanish land grant during the 1800s. After which it was developed and shaped by the Olmsted Brothers before it became the beautiful coastal city that it is today. With its rich and storied background, many historical landmarks remain, serving as windows that give us glimpses of the city’s colorful past.
If you’re interested in learning more about Palos Verdes’ colorful past, here are some great historical landmarks you can visit:
Malaga Cove Plaza
Built during the late 1920s, the historic Malaga Cove Plaza is now a popular tourist attraction and shopping center filled with Spanish Renaissance architecture and plenty of cozy shops, restaurants, cafés, and delis. Welcoming visitors to the charming plaza is the King Neptune Fountain, a copy of a famous statue in Bologna, Italy, which was a gift to the city. The Malaga Cove Plaza is a great historical destination that will surely delight tourists and visitors with its truly beautiful architecture and nostalgic atmosphere.
Point Vicente Lighthouse and Interpretive Center
Learn more about the unique natural and cultural history of the Palos Verdes Peninsula and its surrounding waters at the Point Vicente Interpretive Center. The establishment was opened in 1984, and has since provided visitors with an in-depth look at the unique characteristics and history of the peninsula, through exhibits and displays that showcase artifacts, fossils, and life-sized models. Visitors can also spend an enjoyable day at the park surrounding the center, which features breathtaking views of the ocean, hiking trails, and tours that will take you to the historical Point Vicente Lighthouse.
Wayfarers Chapel
Also known as “The Glass Church,” Wayfarers Chapel was built in the mid-1940s by architect Lloyd Wright, son of Frank Lloyd Wright. Located on cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Wayfarers Chapel features beautiful, modern architecture that makes use of geometric elements that blend seamlessly with the natural landscape – an architectural signature of Wright’s. With its beautiful structure and location, Wayfarers Chapel is a sought-after location for many weddings, and has been used as a location for several popular TV shows.
