Santa Fe Introduction Walking Tour (Self Guided), Santa Fe

Santa Fe's full name is La Villa Real de la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis, or "The Royal Town of the Holy Faith of Saint Francis of Assisi." Thankfully, everyone sticks with "Santa Fe" for simplicity's sake.

The area has been settled for several thousand years, first by the native Puebloan cultures. The Tewa people called the town Ogha Po'oge , which roughly translated to "White Shell Water Place." The Santa Fe River, running through the center of town, was the primary draw for settlers. Until the 1700s, the river had year-round water flow. Its flow is now only seasonal, and it's considered one of the country's most endangered rivers.

Spain's first effort to colonize the area came in 1598. Governor Juan de Oñate created a capitol north of present-day Santa Fe. The Spanish government eventually expelled De Oñate for cruelty to the indigenous people, and the next governor, Don Pedro de Peralta, settled in Santa Fe. In 1680, the Pueblo cultures banded together in revolt, and they ruled the area until 1692 when the Spanish reconquered the area. The US claimed the territory from Mexico in 1846, but it was not until 1912 that New Mexico became the 47th state in the Union.

Santa Fe is a beautiful town full of historical wonder. Influences from indigenous Indian cultures abound, from the adobe Puebloan-style buildings to the crafts sold along the Plaza. You'll also find European influences in many places, none so evident as at the Gothic-style Loretto Chapel. The Palace of Governors and New Mexico History Museums provide a great starting point to learn about the many different influences in the area. Follow this self-guided tour to visit the most important attractions in historic Santa Fe.