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Free Traveling Guides » States » New Mexico » Northern PueblosNorthern Pueblos
The Eight Northern Pueblos of New Mexico include Picuris, Taos, Santa Clara, San Ildefonso, Tesuque, Nambe, Pojoaque, and San Juan. These pueblos together make up the Eight Northern Pueblos Council that advocates for the legal interests of the Pueblos and sponsors several craft fairs. Tewa and Tiwa are very closely related and belong to the Kiowa Tanoan language family. Out of the eight pueblos, only two, Taos and Picuris, speak Tiwa. The rest of the pueblos speak Tewa.
The Taos Pueblo is situated just outside the town of Taos. Picuris, also known as San Lorenzo, is located on the High Road to Taos. The other six pueblos are within 30 miles (50 km) of Santa Fe. All the six Pueblos near Santa Fe can be visited in a single day’s round trip. The San Ildefonso and San Juan pueblos give a feel of the ancient lifestyle. The former is known for its broad plaza and the latter for its arts cooperative. Other main attraction nearby is the Espanola en route, which is famous for some its delicious New Mexican food.
Certain rules of etiquette should be observed when one visits the pueblos. Pueblos are not merely personal dwellings but are also important historic sites. Therefore, these ancient structures should be respected as such. Entering sacred grounds such as kivas and cemeteries, climbing on the buildings, and peeking into the doors or windows is not allowed. Besides, the visitors are expected to remain silent during a ceremony and refrain from any sort of applause. Photography and sketching in the Pueblos is strictly prohibited. Northern Pueblos are certainly worth a visit if you are interested to understand and explore the history and lifestyle of the Native Americans.
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