Santa Fe Plaza- The Heart of Santa Fe

The Santa Fe Plaza is a classic New Mexican adventure. As a National Historic Landmark, the plaza is a must see for anyone visiting the area. The plaza is the heart of downtown Santa Fe, where residents and tourist love to gather to soak in the distinct New Mexican culture that is robust in this area. Often the host of Native American and Spanish markets, the plaza is also the home to various shops and restaurants, all featuring the local goods and cuisine of Santa Fe’s rich cultural diversity.

Established in 1610 by Don Pedro de Peralta, the plaza was originally a fort with defensive walls that protected homes, a church, the prison, the governor’s quarters, and military barracks. By the 1820s, the defensive wall was removed and ornate, adobe homes were built in its place. The Santa Fe Trail, an important trade route of the time that connected Missouri to the Southwest, ended at the Santa Fe Plaza. While many of the original structures no longer remain, the chapel and governor’s palace from the 1600s still remain as some of the oldest standing structures in the United States.

The Santa Fe Plaza’s main feature is the central park, which features a gazebo, a monument, and many trees and benches. Surrounding the park are the structures which combine Spanish and Pueblo style buildings which are home to art galleries, jewelry shops, a museum, and various places to get food.

It is not unusual to spot a mariachi parade of singers and musicians in full costume. And if you happen to come to the plaza around Christmas, you will witness the lovely luminarias that line the park as well as the massive Christmas tree. Many people flock to the plaza for its people watching opportunities, but it also hosts music festivals, craft fairs, and farmers markets. If you do visit New Mexico, don’t miss this gem of history and beauty. There’s sure to be something interesting going on at the Santa Fe Plaza.