We stayed overnight in Grants, NM. We began our morning at the El Malpais National Monument Visitor Center. We drove about 20 miles south, for a lookout view over the ancient canyons full of lava flow.
Our next stop was at Acoma Pueblo, or Acoma Sky City. “Since 1150 AD, Acoma Pueblo has been the oldest continuously inhabited settlement in North America. Acoma Pueblo is built atop a sheer walled 367’ sandstone bluff in a valley studded with sacred, towering monoliths. There are about 5000 tribal members and 250 dwellings in the Pueblo, with no electricity, sewer, or water. Most tribal members live in other nearby villages and spend special holidays in the Pueblo. San Esteban del Rey Mission Church was built in 1629, and is still used today. The Acoma people are known for their art and rich culture.” We took a tour and had a fascinating day!
