The site of the Nuestra Señora del Rosario de Viñadaco mission was initially explored by the Franciscans around 1771. 

Two years later, the Dominicans inspected the area, and it was Fray Vicente Mora, the President of the order, who discovered the location and its surroundings. The site proved suitable for establishing the mission due to the abundance of water and lush vegetation. 

In June 1774, the mission was organized, with Friars Vicente Balda and Juan Salgado in charge. In 1802, the mission was moved to the opposite side of the valley. 

Ruins of this mission can be found at both sites, specifically adobe ruins. Currently, there are deteriorated adobe walls and remains of the foundations of the Dominican Mission, where the museum is located in El Rosario de Abajo.