Thanks perhaps to its isolated location (or inspirational geology), Nambé Pueblo has long been a spiritual center for the Tewa-speaking tribes, a distinction that attracted the attentions of Spanish priests intent on conversion by any means necessary. After the Pueblo Revolt and Reconquista wound down, Spanish colonists annexed much of their land.

Public events include dances at Nambé Falls on July 4, San Francisco de Asis Feast Day (October 4) and the Buffalo Dance (December 24).


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Pojoaque Pueblo

2.68 MILES

Although the history of Pojoaque Pueblo predates the Spaniards, a smallpox epidemic in the late 19th century killed most of its inhabitants, and forced…

2. Poeh Cultural Center & Museum

2.68 MILES

Set up by the Pojoaque Pueblo’s former governor, artist George Rivera, this center features simple but powerful displays on the history and culture of the…

3. Nambé Falls & Lake Recreation Area

4.36 MILES

Two lovely 20-minute hikes, each ½ mile one-way, start from the Ramada Area 5 miles off Hwy 50 and lead to the biggest attraction on Nambé lands, Nambé…

4. Tesuque Pueblo

5.85 MILES

Nine miles north of Santa Fe along Hwy 84/285 is Tesuque Pueblo, whose members played an important role in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, and later suffered…

5. El Santuario de Chimayó

7.23 MILES

Often called the Lourdes of America, the chapel was built in 1816, over a spot of earth said to have miraculous healing properties. The faithful come to…

6. San Ildefonso Pueblo

8.61 MILES

Eight miles west of Pojoaque along Hwy 502, this ancient pueblo traces its origins back to Bandelier and Mesa Verde. It’s best known now as the birthplace…

7. Santa Clara Pueblo

8.84 MILES

Santa Clara Pueblo itself, just a mile southwest of Española along Hwy 30, springs to life in summer for the Harvest and Blue Corn Dances on Santa Clara…

8. Shidoni Galleries & Sculpture Garden

9.31 MILES

Five miles north of Santa Fe, the grassy sculpture garden at Shidoni is a great place for a picnic, or for kids to run around the funky artwork. There's…