Pueblo of San Ildefonso
Twenty two miles north of Santa Fe on State Rd. 502
Feast Day January 23 ' (505) 455-2273
The people of San Ildefonso migrated from the Mesa Verde colony in Southern Colorado and built their home at Bandelier (National Monument). In the 1300's a drought forced the people to a more hospitable environment near the Rio Grande (east of Los Alamos) where they are today.
The view is of Black Mesa, sacred to the San Ildefonso people because it is where the Pueblo people defended themselves from the Spanish reconquest of New Mexico. San Ildefonso as a central plaza designed for protection with adobe houses surrounding the enclosed plaza with the kiva at one end. This is much like it has been for several hundred years. Most of the architecture has been reconstructed, but the Tewa architecture has been preserved. Outside the pueblo members harvest corn and other vegetables. San Ildefonso has preserved its strong cultural identity and still observes ancient traditions.
This pueblo is famous for its black on black pottery, made popular by Maria Martinez. There is a step-by-step exhibit at the pueblo museum of the way pottery is made entirely by hand without use of commercial equipment or glazes. Since the art is taught by one family member to another, there are many fine artists living on the pueblo.
Some small family-owned business sell pottery as well as pueblo paintings, embroidery, moccasins, and silver jewelry. Many celebrations and ceremonial dances are open to the public, but some are not. Call the San Ildefonso Visitor Center for information.
