Tour historic sites in Santa Fe

Tour historic sites in Santa Fe

Santa Fe, New Mexico, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, and touring historic sites is a great way to explore the city’s past. From ancient Native American ruins to Spanish colonial architecture, there’s no shortage of fascinating landmarks to discover. Here are some tips on what to do if you’re planning to tour historic sites in Santa Fe.

Visit the Palace of the Governors

The Palace of the Governors is one of the oldest public buildings in the United States, dating back to 1610. It served as the seat of government for the Spanish colonial governors, and later, the Mexican and American territorial governors. Today, it houses the New Mexico History Museum, showcasing the state’s diverse cultural history. The Palace also features an outdoor Native American art market, where you can shop for unique handmade crafts and jewelry.

Explore the Santa Fe Plaza

The Santa Fe Plaza is the heart of the city’s historic district, and has been a gathering place for centuries. It features a variety of historic buildings, including the San Miguel Mission, the oldest church in the United States, and the Loretto Chapel, famous for its spiral staircase with no visible means of support. The Plaza also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and markets.

Visit the Pueblo Indian Ruins

Just outside Santa Fe, you’ll find the ruins of the Pueblo Indian civilization, which dates back more than a thousand years. The most famous site is the Puye Cliff Dwellings, a complex of cliffside structures that were inhabited until the 16th century. The Bandelier National Monument, another nearby site, features a variety of well-preserved Pueblo ruins and artifacts.

Tour the Spanish Colonial Architecture

Santa Fe is renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture, with buildings dating back to the 17th century. The adobe buildings and colorful facades of the historic district are a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage. Some notable examples include the Santa Fe Cathedral, the San Francisco de Asis Mission, and the La Fonda on the Plaza hotel, which dates back to 1922.

Visit the Santa Fe National Historic Trail

The Santa Fe National Historic Trail is a 900-mile route that runs from Missouri to Santa Fe, following the path of the traders and settlers who opened up the West. In Santa Fe, the trail passes through the historic district, and features a variety of landmarks, including the Plaza, the Palace of the Governors, and the San Miguel Mission.

Conclusion

Touring historic sites in Santa Fe is a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s rich cultural heritage. From ancient Native American ruins to Spanish colonial architecture, the landmarks and sites are varied and fascinating. So, plan your visit today and explore the history and culture of Santa Fe. And don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning architecture and landscapes that make this city a true gem of the Southwest.