In order to fully appreciate this structure it's important to know that this
is where the only successful Native American uprising took place in 1680.
Prior to the uprising this was the local seat of power and ofter De Vargas
reconquered the natives H resumed that position. Built in 1610 as the
original capitol of New Mexico the palace has been in continous public use
longer that any other structure in the United States. A watful eye can find
remhants of the coflicts this building has seen through the years. You'll
want to begin out front where Native Americans sell jwelry, pottery and some
weavings in the sun under the protection of the sun under the protection of
the portal This is a good place to buy. and it's a fun place to shop,
especially if you take the time to visit with the artisans about their work
when you buy a piece you may learn its history, a treasure as valuable as
the piece itself. The museum focuses little on regional Native American
Culture ( most Native American artifacts previously housed here have been
moved to the museum of Indian Arts and cultures. However recently a world
class collection of pre columbian art objects has been added. You'll see
ceramics, gold and stonework of south and central America from 1500 BC to AD
1500. There's also an impressive 18th century segesser Hide painting
collection, which documents events from America's Spanish colonial past. The
palace is the flagship of the museum of New Mexico System. The system
comprises five state monuments and four santa Fe museums the palace of the
Governors, the museum of Five Arts. the museum of International Folk Art,
and the museum of Indian Arts and culture.
Hours: Tues - Sun 10am to 5pm
Location: North Plaza
Phone: 505/827 - 6483
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