Taos Pueblo, NM

The Taos Pueblo "the Place of the Red Willows" is considered to be the oldest continuously occupied community in the USA. The two main structures, Hlaauma/ North House...and Hlaukkwima/ South House both believed to be over 1000 years old. A complex of many individual homes, not connected, constructed of mud adobe... and still occupied traditionally without either electricity or running water carry on the traditions and rituals of the native culture.


The site history includes a long and varied series of events, the struggles of the Native Americans against and with the early Spanish explorers, the later Mexican occupation, and the transitions with the United States intrusion into their native lands... and the on ging efforts to maintain their historic culture.The site includes not only the complex of ancient buildings but the grave yard built over the ruin site of the original catholic church built in 1619, and the current San Geronimo Church, built in 1850 (a Registered National Historic Landmark) and one of the youngest buildings in the village.

Your visit may include access to native artisan wears, and locally prepared foods.

The area is only accessible during periods when the Pueblo is open to the public. There is a fee charged for entry ($10) and an additional fee charged for each camera ($5) to be used within the confines of the Pueblo. Also, it is not acceptable to photograph the occupants without their permission, and it is customary to give a small tip ($3-$5) for the privilege of taking their picture. You may not enter the cemetery walls. The river passing through the Pueblo is the sole source of the water for the village; do not enter nor allow pets to enter (pets on leash at all times, please). Do not take pictures of the interior of the church nor any pictures on their Feast days. Do not enter doorways not clearly marked as a shop for business. Do not climb on structures, ladders or walls.

You may not ride bikes, run, or walk in the area or on the roads adjacent to the Pueblo...

2009-05-12 imike