TAOS, NEW MEXICO, USA -- Nestled in the foothills of some of New Mexico's tallest peaks are multi-storied adobe buildings that have been continuously inhabited for over 1000 years. This is the Taos Pueblo, the only living Native American community designated both a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and a National Historic Landmark. Here is a unique opportunity to take a look back in time and explore the culture of the Native Americans who have lived here for generations.

Although the main part of the present buildings were most likely constructed between 1000 and 1450 A.D, they still look much the same today. The Pueblo is made entirely of adobe -- earth mixed with water and straw, then either poured into forms or made into sun-dried bricks. The walls are frequently several feet thick - helping to insulate the interiors from New Mexico's seasonal temperature extremes.

The Pueblo actually consists of many individual homes, built side-by-side and in layers. The homes have common walls but no connecting doorways. In fact, doorways are one of the few modern amenities the 150 full time residents here enjoy. In the old days, the adobe dwellings had no doors or windows - entry was gained through the roof.

Aside from doors and windows, pueblo residents live an old fashioned life - no electricity or running is allowed within the Pueblo walls. Water still comes from the running stream, bread is still baked in outdoor domed shaped clay ovens, craftspeople still use ancient techniques to create handcrafts like pottery, leatherwear, art and jewelry.

Surprisingly, about 90% of the Pueblo Indians are Catholic, which is practiced along with the ancient Indian religious rites which are an important part of Taos Pueblo life. Be sure to visit the St. Jerome or San Geronimo Chapel at the pueblo, which dates back to 1850. Churches have been at the pueblo since 1619, often being destroyed in wars and uprisings, but always rebuilt.

Shopping Alert!

A shopping hint when visiting Taos - take cash when you visit the Taos Pueblo, you'll find some of the best bargains on authentic native American jewelry and handicrafts anywhere, often times created by the very person selling it to you. Most vendors, however, do not accept credit cards.

You can also purchase delicious fresh baked goods and other native homemade Native American foods.

Practicalities

The Pueblo is generally open to visitors daily from 8am to 4:30pm, except when tribal rituals require closing the Pueblo.Late winter to early spring the Pueblo closes for about ten weeks. It is always a good idea to call in advance in order to disappointment - 505-758-1028. Guided tours are available. For more information visit the website at www.taospueblo.com. As of this writing (late 2005) admission is $10.00 person, with children under 13 free and student rates (with valid ID) available. If you wish to take photos at the Taos Pueblo, you must also pay a fee for a photo permit (currently $5.00).

For more information about planning a visit to Taos, New Mexico contact the Taos Chamber of Commerce at 877-587-8915 or visit www.exploretaos.com.

Cheri Sicard, in addition to being the editor of FabulousTravel.com and its sister site, Fabulous Foods.com is the author of The Great American Handbook: What You Can Do For Your Country Today and Every Day and The Low Carb Restaurant Guide, and the co-author of US Citizenship for Dummies. To learn more about Cheri, click here.