Few People Know New Mexico Was Home To The First Public Building In America

What fun facts about New Mexico do you know? Did you know that New Mexico is home to more UNESCO World Heritage Sites than any other state in the country? Or how about the fact that Santa Fe is the highest elevated state capital at 7,000 feet above sea level? Another fact you may or may not know is that New Mexico is home to the first public building in America. Dating back over 400 years, the Palace of the Governors is still in use as a public building.

More than 400 years old, the Palace of the Governors is the oldest public building in continuous use in America.

Due to its age and historical significance, it's listed on the National Register of Historic Places and has the distinction of being a National Historic Landmark in New Mexico.

The Palace of the Governors started out as the government seat for the first Spanish governor of New Mexico. Over time, it was occupied by the Pueblo Indians, then the Confederacy during the Civil War, and then the military of New Mexico.

At the beginning of the 20th century, the building served several purposes. It housed the governor's and secretary's offices as well as the governor's residence, a library, a carriage house, and stables, among others.

Today, the Palace of the Governors is part of the Museum of New Mexico and is a must-visit when in Santa Fe.

Come here to learn the history of the Palace of the Governors along with the significant period of history in New Mexico.

So, did you know that New Mexico is home to the first public building in America? Have you visited the Palace of Governors yet? Let us know in the comments. To learn more about the Palace of the Governors, visit the New Mexico History Museum's website.

If you love history, you should also check out some of the other oldest buildings in New Mexico.