Located between Petaluma and Napa, and only about 40 miles north of San Francisco, Sonoma real estate is perfectly situated to maximize residents' quality of life. Although world-renowned as a wine mecca, Sonoma maintains the tight-knit feel of a small community, with a charming downtown. In 1846, the California Republic declared its independence from Mexico, with Sonoma named the capital of this short-lived sovereign state. Consequently, Sonoma is known as the birthplace of California, a town rich in history surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.