Also known as the Sky City, Acoma Pueblo dates back to around 1100 AD and rests atop a 367-foot sandstone mesa rising out of the desert floor. Located just 60 miles west of Albuquerque, it is considered the oldest inhabited community in North America.
In ancient times when the community was formed, the only way to gain access was via a staircase that was hand-carved into the sandstone mesa.
Visitors are allowed to walk up and down the steep rocky stairs, adding to the experience. Otherwise, you can drive a car along the paved road to the top.
The houses at Acoma Pueblo are modest with no running water, electricity, sewer, or WiFi for that matter.
Water may either be brought it or taken from one of the cisterns on top of the mesa. Candles and propane lamps are used. Although the pueblo is inhabited by several year-round residents, most members live in towns surrounding the mesa and visit often to attend tribal celebrations
This large central plaza hosts ceremonial dances on the annual feast day.
Most buildings on the mesa have three levels with the bottom level used for storage, second level used as sleeping quarters, and the top level was the kitchen.
Tours of the Sky City are guided by Natives of Acoma.
A tour of the Pueblo should be taken in addition to visiting the Sky City Cultural City which houses the Haak'u Museum. Here you will learn about the past, present, and future of the Acoma people, their history, and cultural preservation.
San Estevan del Rey Mission was founded in 1629 by Franciscans in order to convert the Pueblo people to Christianity.
Catholicism is practiced here in addition to their native ceremonial practices. Oftentimes, tribal dances are performed inside the Mission, and Christmas is celebrated here as well.
This dome oven is used mainly to make bread from a yeast dough.
A hot fire blazes and when it is reduced to charcoal, paddles are used to place the bread inside to cook for 25-45 minutes. Ovens like this may also be used to roast meat and corn.
The craftsmanship of the beautiful pottery is steeped in a centuries-old tradition.
Unique geometric designs are painted onto the thin-walled pottery using clay from the surrounding area of the pueblo. The quality alone will make you want to purchase one to take home.
Take a tour to get an idea of the rich culture and history of the Acoma Pueblo Native American Tribe. Purchase goods such as pottery and jewelry made by the Acoma people and you will be taking home a unique souvenir from a place unlike any other, all while supporting the locals. Would you like to visit this Sky City?
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