There’s always something new to learn.
Santa Fe may be known for its adobe architecture and artistic soul, but there’s far more going on beneath the surface of this high-desert haven. It’s a place where history runs deep, cuisine is infused with culture, and the sunsets feel like a nightly masterpiece painted just for you.
But what most visitors don’t realize is just how many stories are tucked into every corner of The City Different — from ancient trails to offbeat oddities.
Let’s see what we discover.
Things you didn’t know about Santa Fe.
5. Santa Fe has the oldest church in the U.S.
San Miguel Chapel, built around 1610, claims to be the oldest church structure in the country. Though it’s been repaired over the years, the thick adobe walls and wooden vigas are original — a tangible link to the city’s Spanish colonial beginnings.
4. Its original street grid was designed for donkeys.
Santa Fe’s maze-like layout wasn’t just an artistic choice — it was built for slow-moving burros navigating tight alleys and winding paths. The quirky layout has survived centuries, giving the city its distinct, walkable charm.
3. The state capitol building is round — on purpose.
Unlike any other in the U.S., New Mexico’s capitol (nicknamed “The Roundhouse”) is circular and designed to resemble the Zia sun symbol — a sacred emblem to the Zia Pueblo. It’s more than architecture; it’s a nod to indigenous roots and cultural respect.
2. There’s a staircase here with no known architect.
The Loretto Chapel’s “Miraculous Staircase” is the stuff of legend. With no visible support, no nails, and a mysterious origin story tied to a mysterious carpenter, it’s captivated visitors and confounded engineers for decades.
1. Santa Fe is a UNESCO Creative City.
Recognized globally for its contributions to folk art, crafts, and design, Santa Fe was the first U.S. city designated a UNESCO Creative City. Between its markets, galleries, and festivals, creativity isn’t just encouraged — it’s celebrated on a global stage.
Bottom line.
Santa Fe is where ancient traditions and bold creativity collide in a blaze of color and culture. Whether you come for the art or the chile, you’ll leave with stories that linger. It’s not just a city — it’s a canvas for the curious.
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