Politana, California
- Ghost town
- In Politana, California
- 1.9 mi from Route 66
Politana, also called Apolitana, is where Spain first settled the San Bernardino Valley, in San Bernardino, CA, about 2 miles off the old road. It began in 1810 as a chapel and supply post for Mission San Gabriel, at a village of the Guachama people near Lytle Creek. Little that is visible ties it to that past, yet it marks a very early chapter in the story of this valley.
What is Politana?
The settlement grew on a bluff now called Bunker Hill. Over time it housed the Guachama, New Mexican settlers, and Cahuilla people. The name is said to honor a convert named Hipolito. Some historians dispute the location, tying the name to a later 1840s settlement.
Visiting Politana: tips
A Greek Orthodox church, St. Prophet Elias, now stands as the most visible landmark, near the Inland Center Mall. Treat this as a short history stop. La Placita is about 5 miles away.
Practical info
- On site & nearby
Sources: OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL) · Wikidata · official site — may be outdated. Suggest a fix
Where to eat near Politana
All diners on Route 66 →
On the map
Full mapPolitana with the 6 closest stops and a place to eat (fork and knife). Tap a marker for details.
Tap a dot to see that stop here.
Stops near Politana
All of California
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