Most experts agree that Santa Fe was once the site of Pueblo Indian Villages that seem to have been abandoned centuries before the Spanish arrived in 1607. The colonists used the Indian method of adobe construction, produced by combining sand, clay, water and fibrous organic matter like sticks or straw. The modern day Santa Fe has retained this Spanish-Pueblo look. As a matter of fact, strict ordinances enacted decades ago, mandate this appearance of all new buildings. Even fast food restaurants and convenience stores conform to the traditional adobe style. We visited the 1610 San Miguel Mission Church, claiming to be the oldest church in the USA. It serves as a shrine to St. Michael and Mass is celebrated here weekly.
We also spent time in the Plaza, the core of the original settlement, which remains essentially intact for nearly 4 centuries. The Plaza is a square block which is a vital center of commerce, festivals and history. The sidewalks along the square have local Indian arts, crafts and jewelry on display for purchase. The locals sit right on the pavement with their items spread out on blankets right in front of them. The prices do not seem to be negotiable, they are what they are!
The city is full of museums and many art galleries. Artists have been drawn to this area because of its beautiful scenery and southwestern sunlight. We did have great weather today for our walk around the city, blue sky, hot sun with 72 degree temperatures. It is a clean city and appears much smaller then the 62,000 plus residents. Narrow streets, old buildings and many up-scale shops and restaurants. We could live here....but another winter storm is on its way. And we did see some small piles of snow in shady areas.
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