There’s the archeological type of history that you can read in a book. And then there’s the other kind - real, living history that you can see today. That’s what you’ll find at Taos Pueblo, the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America.
In fact, this village on 99,000 acres bordering the Town of Taos is the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO (so have the Taj Mahal and the Great Pyramids) and a National Historic Landmark. Its main adobe structures, Hlauuma (north house) and Hlaukwima (south house), actually form a network of individual homes; the village’s San Geronimo Chapel was built in 1850. You can still see the ruins of the original church from 1619.
If that seems like a long time ago, consider that the approximately 150 inhabitants of Taos Pueblo are descendants of a people who have lived here for more than 1,000 years. Where and how they live is much the same as it was then. The village is open for tours daily, except for about ten weeks in late winter and during tribal rituals. You can even buy jewelry, skins, pottery and other items created by local artisans.
Best New Mexico Travel Deals
Shop and compare lowest prices from top travel sites.
No change or cancel fees, plus lower hotel booking fees at priceline.com
No change or cancel fees, plus lower hotel booking fees at priceline.com
Shop and compare lowest prices from top travel sites.
Shop and compare lowest prices from top travel sites.
Shop and compare lowest prices from top travel sites.
Things to know:
Region: North Central New Mexico
Average temperature: Low 44 degrees, high 66 degrees F.
Average population: About 150; Approximately 1,900 Taos Indians live on Taos Pueblo lands.
Dates and Prices: The Pueblo is open daily from 8 am to 4:30 p.m. Cost is $5 for students and $10 for adults. Children under 13 visit free. Group rates are available. Call ahead if visiting during the late winter/early spring closing.
Each website you select will open a new window in your browser.
