The city of Santa Fe has endured nearly four centuries of resplendent history. Recognized as the oldest capitol city in the United States, it has served as the seat of provincial government for the Northern Spanish Empire in the new world, the temporary headquarters of the Pueblo Tribes during the Pueblo Revolt, and the capitol of the northern territory of the Mexican Republic. When the United States obtained the lands that now make up the American Southwest, Santa Fe became the capitol of the New Mexico Territory, and now is the capitol of the State of New Mexico.

Despite its rich and sometimes turbulent past, Santa Fe’s population was slow to grow. Until 20 years ago, it was not a major city by any standard. Zoning laws from the 1950s, written by visionary civic leaders, helped the growing city retain the enchanting charm that makes it one of the most fascinating and romantic cities in the Western Hemisphere.  Santa Fe is the largest city and county seat of Santa Fe County.  The elevation of Santa Fe is nearly 7,000 feet above sea level compared with approximately 5,352 ft for Albuquerque.

Approaching Santa Fe as one descends off La Bajada hill on I25 (often impassable in snow storms) the shock is that it doesn’t seem like a city of such reknown is just a few miles ahead. That’s because there are no tall buildings, none over three stories, and most of the homes are tucked into the countryside almost as a part of it. The city reminds one of Frank Lloyd Wright’s contention that a building should blend into its environment. Santa Fe does that, probably better than any city in the world. Even businesses conform to the legislated style in adobe colors and motifs. The other town in New Mexico which has this appearance is Taos, an even older city than Santa Fe.

After State government, tourism is a major aspect of the Santa Fe economy, with visitors attracted year-round by the climate and related outdoor activities (such as skiing in years of adequate snowfall; hiking in other seasons) plus cultural activities of the city and the region.  Once the Santa Fe Opera House was built it was clear that Santa Fe was a culture center determined not to fade into the countryside though. It has galleries galore, theatrical and artistic advanced educational centers, maintains a plaza that has outgrowth now for at least four blocks in every direction, and espouses organic food and rich-hippie attitudes. From the La Fonda Hotel on the Plaza to the Pink Adobe Restaurant not far away the town (it’s hard to call it a city really), reeks of culture, oldness, easy comfort, warmth, and small town flavors. It is a truly unique city that deserves its international fame.

Most activities take place in the historic downtown, especially on and around the Plaza, a one-block square adjacent to the Palace of the Governors, the original seat of New Mexico’s territorial government since the time of Spanish colonization. Other areas include “Museum Hill”, the site of the major art museums of the city, and the Canyon Road arts area with its galleries.

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