<h1 style="text-align: center;">San Rafael, <em>San Francisco</em></h1>
<p>The California city of San Rafael, county seat of Marin County, is located 17 miles north of San Francisco in the North Bay region of the Bay Area. The city is bordered by San Pablo and San Francisco bays and lies near the junction of Interstate I-580 and U.S. Route 101. Neighboring communities include Santa Venetia (to the north), San Anselmo (to the west), and Greenbrae (to the south).</p>
<p>San Rafael is one of several California towns which developed around a Spanish mission in the California mission chain. Mission San Rafael Arcangel, built in 1817 and rebuilt in 1949, was the 20th in the mission chain and was named for the Archangel Raphael, the Angel of Healing. One of California's original 27 county seats, San Rafael became Marin County's first city when it was incorporated in 1874. The oldest, largest, and most culturally diverse city in the county, San Rafael is today a lively industrial and cultural center located in an area replete with natural beauty. The city is home to Dominican University.</p>
<p>Approximately 30 percent of San Rafael's land is comprised of parklands and open space, making many recreational activities available. China Camp State Park is a quiet and beautiful venue whose 1,600 acres provide ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and overnight camping. The park acquired its name from a Chinese fishing village that once flourished there. The city is also home to a number of historical and cultural attractions.</p>