Albuquerque's Legendary KiMO Theater

Ken Lund. flickr

One of Albuquerque’s most notable landmarks is the gorgeous KiMo Theater. Built in 1927 by Oreste Bachechi, the building is a work of art that has (just barely, at moments) withstood the tests of changing times and still provokes amazement in visitors and Burque locals alike.

Entrance, Karen Blaha. flickr

Designed by Carl Boller, the extravagant structure is a blend of Art Deco and southeast-inspired Pueblo Revival architecture, incorporating adobe building styles and indigenous motifs. Having been inspired by the Navajo, Acoma and Isleta cultures in his travels around New Mexico, Boller filled the theater with intricate detail, pattern and color. Air vents look like Navajo blankets, overhead beams are painted to look like logs, the chandeliers are war drums or canoes. Esoteric symbols dance around outlines, iron birds take flight over the grand stairway and rows of buffalo heads and terra-cotta shields adorn the walls, inside and out.

Lintels, Asaavedra32. Wikimedia Commons

Nine large murals in oil by Carl Von Hassler depict scenes of Pueblo life. The result is absolutely enchanting, and a must-see for any art lover visiting Albuquerque.

Murals. Photo via Good Free Photos

Named after the Tiwo word for mountain lion, THe KiMo was almost demolished by the city in the 1970’s, after years of disrepair and a fire. Thankfully, the decision was made to restore and renovate, and this unique piece of architecture is still available to be enjoyed today and provides a stage for plays, performances, movies and other events.

Door Handles, MrTinDC. flickr