Jemez Historic Site
Jemez Historic Site, a National Historic Landmark dating to A.D. 1350, sits on more than seven acres and includes the stone ruins of the prehistoric village of Giusewa. Built by the Walatowa, the ancestors of today’s Jemez Indians, Jemez was once a multistory village with nearly 1,000 rooms. The area is now considered one of the most beautiful prehistoric and historic sites in the Southwest for its rare ruins and captivating scenery, including a series of natural springs.
In addition to its ruins, the site includes the San José de los Jemez Church, which dates from 1621–22 and marks the 17th-century establishment of a Spanish mission at the village. Residents eventually abandoned the mission and settled at present-day Jemez Pueblo.
A 1,400-foot trail traverses Jemez Historic Site, interpreting the site’s rich history on the ground and through expansive views. A heritage center hosts exhibitions that tell the story of the ruins and the Jemez people in the words of today’s Jemez tribal members.
While the State of New Mexico provides funding to preserve and operate the site, private contributions through the Museum of New Mexico Foundation are critical in sustaining the its vibrant programs, including children’s education, elders-in-residence and other public outreach activities.
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