Pueblo of Picuris

13 miles east of State Rd 75 from Embudo Station, or 21 miles south on Hwy 518 from Taos to Junction 75

Feast Day: August 9 -10 

(505) 587-2519

Archeological remains indicate that this region was inhabited as early as 750 A.D. Around 1250 the Picturis left a larger pueblo to settle here and make their home in this secluded mountain valley of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, surrounded by orchards and corn and alfalfa fields. Here is where they fared well until the Spanish arrived. The Picturis played a major part in the Pueblo revolt in 1680. After this revolt the pueblo was reduced from a size of 3,000 to 500.

The pueblo is now home to 339 people. A few of the original homes still stand and are home to the elders of the pueblo. A very visible 700 year old kiva can be seen at this pueblo. Other buildings to be observed are excavated kivas and storerooms. The adobe church in the center of the pueblo was restored by the inhabitants of the pueblo along with the help of neighboring communities

The remote location has contributed to economic difficulties. But some visionary members have made the pueblo more prosperous. These visionaries had decided to buy the Hotel Santa Fe. This hotel brings jobs to the tribes members, and is helping to build a large community center as well as community service programs for the pueblo. On the pueblo there is a museum, restaurant, and gift shop. Recent programs for raising bison are also contributing to the pueblo's enhancement.

The Picturis are known for their beautiful micaceous pottery. Two trout fishing lakes are available for fishing enthusiasts. The religious ceremonies of the Picturis are still conducted in the kivas and many may be seen by the public. The only request by the members is that the rules and regulations are followed when visiting.