Cieneguitas Cemetery Santa Barbara

Cieneguitas Cemetery, also affectionately known as La Patera Cemetery or the "Old Catholic Cemetery," is a remarkable site of rest and remembrance that holds a treasured place in the history of the Goleta District. Operating from 1875 to 1897, this serene location became the final resting place for around 1,200 devoted Catholics, including 20 courageous Civil War veterans. In 1896, a new chapter began with the establishment of Calvary Cemetery on Hope Avenue in Santa Barbara, which became the main burial site. This shift reflects the evolution of our community's traditions, and many remains were thoughtfully transferred to Calvary.

Situated conveniently on the 4500 block of Hollister Avenue in Goleta, Cieneguitas Cemetery is a dignified tribute to our past! While it does not have an on-site office or available records, and visitation is limited without on-site parking, it remains a significant landmark.

For any inquiries about our historic cemeteries, we warmly invite you to reach out at Contact@CatholicCM.org or call (213) 637-7801 and select option 8. Your questions are important to us!

Catholic School children pray in Chapel | Día de los Muertos Catechetical Day 2026

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By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries Outreach • October 27, 2026

Eleven Catholic schools gathered at Calvary for Catechetical Day, celebrating faith, Día de los Muertos traditions, remembrance, and our Catholic hope in the Resurrection.

Pope Leo

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By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries Outreach • October 10, 2026

Celebrate 100 years of World Mission Sunday and reflect on Pope Leo XIV’s inspiring call to prayer, generosity, and our shared mission to bring the hope of Christ to the world.

Woman leaving Christmas flowers at gravesite memorial

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By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries • October 7, 2026

Plan for your holiday visit with information about quieter visitation times, high-traffic dates, flower policies, and tips for a safe and meaningful visit.

Photo of LACatholics webpage. Year of Saint Francis.

Stay Connected to Our Catholic Community with LA Catholics

By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries Community Outreach • October 1, 2026

Discover LA Catholics, the Archdiocese of Los Angeles website for Catholic news, events, parishes, resources and opportunities to stay connected in faith.

Planning Ahead Is an Act of Love: Join Our Monthly Online Preplanning Seminar

By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries • September 23, 2026

Join our monthly online preplanning seminars via Zoom, and learn how planning ahead can provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Group photo Bereavement Training Workshop

San Fernando Region Bereavement Training Workshops

By Catholic Cemeteries & Mortuaries Community Outreach • September 14, 2026

Bereavement Training Workshop San Fernando Valley Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church