Museum of Spanish Colonial Art, Santa Fe

Opened in 2002, this museum is housed in an intimate adobe structure designed by renowned architect John Gaw Meem in 1930 and donated to the Spanish Colonial Arts Society in 1998. It was created to showcase the society's 3,000-piece collection, featuring five centuries of art spanning four continents, from the earliest Spanish contact to the present.

Unique treasures, such as the only signed 'retablo' by the 19th-century artisan Rafael Aragón, are displayed alongside more utilitarian items from the colonial past, including silk mantas, wool rugs, and decorative tin. New works by contemporary artisans are also featured.

A visit here offers a wonderful, yet not overwhelming, introduction to a more meaningful tour of Santa Fe. All exhibits are provided with rich, clear historical context. The museum also offers exploratory trips and hands-on workshops in traditional New Mexican Spanish arts.