Adobe structures have been part of Monterey's history for a long time.
Monterey was the capital of Alta California from 1777 to 1846 under both Spain and Mexico, then became part of the U.S. in 1846.
"Adobe building techniques were introduced by the Spanish and continued into the Mexican and American periods," says Michael D. Green, manager of Monterey State Historic Park. "Adobe was used because it was plentiful and cost-effective. California Indians learned the technique from the Spanish."
Most adobes in this area were built on a stone base topped with sun-dried bricks made with mud, clay and seashells. Two-story structures required supporting walls up to 3 feet thick. Adobe walls were usually finished with plaster and whitewash.
Surprisingly, many of these early adobe structures still exist. In fact, Monterey is home to the most adobes west of Santa Fe, N.M.
The Monterey State Historic Park protects a large collection, and most are open to the public. The largest adobe concentrations are downtown and near Fisherman's Wharf. A few are privately owned; some are open as businesses.