Acoma pueblo new mexico
Acoma Pueblo, also known as Sky City, is a small Native American community located in western New Mexico, United States. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America, with a history dating back over 2,000 years.
Here are some interesting facts about Acoma Pueblo:
- Oldest continuously inhabited community: Acoma Pueblo has been continuously inhabited since around 1150 AD, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in North America.
- Sky City: Acoma Pueblo is often referred to as Sky City due to its unique location on a 367-foot-high sandstone mesa. The pueblo is surrounded by a sheer drop of over 600 feet, making it a breathtaking sight.
- Tribal affiliation: Acoma Pueblo is part of the Acoma Pueblo tribe, which is a federally recognized tribe. The tribe has a population of around 4,800 enrolled members.
- Language: The Acoma Pueblo tribe speaks the Acoma language, which is a member of the Kiowa-Tanoan language family. However, many residents also speak English.
- Ceramics: Acoma Pueblo is famous for its traditional ceramics, which are highly prized for their beauty and craftsmanship. The pueblo's potters are known for their distinctive black-on-white designs.
- History: Acoma Pueblo has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to around 1000 AD. The pueblo was an important center of trade and commerce in the region, and it played a significant role in the Spanish colonization of the Americas.
- Tourism: Acoma Pueblo is a popular tourist destination, with visitors drawn to its stunning natural setting and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can take a guided tour of the pueblo, which includes a visit to the top of the mesa and a tour of the historic church.
- Economy: The economy of Acoma Pueblo is based on tourism, as well as traditional activities such as farming, ranching, and crafts. The pueblo is also home to a number of small businesses, including a convenience store, a gas station, and a restaurant.
- Education: Acoma Pueblo has a school that serves students from kindergarten to 12th grade. The school offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including sports, music, and art.
- Preservation: Acoma Pueblo is a protected site, with many of its buildings and structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The pueblo is also a member of the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA), which aims to protect and preserve Native American cultural heritage.
Overall, Acoma Pueblo is a unique and fascinating place that offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Native American people.