The Taos Pueblo, with its rich oral history rooted in religious traditions, has been inhabited for nearly a millennium, long before European contact. The ancestors of the Taos people established their presence in the Taos Valley around 1000 A.D., and the main structures of the Pueblo were built between 1000 and 1450 A.D. Spanish explorers arrived in 1540, mistaking the Pueblo for one of the mythical golden cities. Today, Taos Pueblo is known for its distinctive adobe architecture, with thick walls and intricate roofing supported by timbers from local forests. It remains one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States.
Approximately 150 individuals live full-time within the Pueblo, while many others reside in modern homes nearby. Over 1,900 Taos Indians call Taos Pueblo land home, maintaining their unique lifestyle amidst contemporary changes. The San Geronimo Chapel, a significant religious site for the community, was rebuilt in 1850 after earlier structures were destroyed. The Pueblo’s residents practice a blend of Catholicism and ancient religious rites, reflecting a complex spiritual landscape where both traditions coexist harmoniously.
Governance within the Pueblo is managed by a tribal governor and war chief, elected annually by the Tribal Council of male elders. The governor focuses on internal civil matters and relations with non-Indigenous communities, while the war chief is responsible for the protection of lands outside the Pueblo. A landmark event in the recent history of Taos Pueblo was the 1970 return of 48,000 acres of sacred mountain land, including Blue Lake, a site of immense cultural and spiritual significance, marking a triumph for the community’s leadership and commitment to preserving their heritage.
Culturally, Taos Pueblo thrives on its traditions, which dictate a lifestyle free from electricity and running water within the village. Artisans produce distinctive pottery and jewelry, alongside traditional crafts. The community also runs a school, offering education tailored to their needs, overseen by Pueblo members. Taos Pueblo is accessible to visitors, promoting its cultural heritage while remaining steadfast in its mission to preserve ancient traditions against modernization. This commitment has garnered recognition, with Taos Pueblo designated a National Historic Landmark and included in the World Heritage Society, celebrating its significant cultural impact.