Santa Fe: Welcome to the colourful capital of New Mexico

Santa Fe is the capital of New Mexico, but that's not all! It also holds a record for being the highest city in the United States by altitude. The beauty of Santa Fe and the surrounding area lies in the Sangre de Cristo mountain range, whose highest point, Pic Blanca, is 4,372 metres above sea level.

Santa Fé is certainly one of the oldest cities in the United States. Its ancient name, Yootó, is a reminder of its Amerindian origins. In fact, the Amerindian culture is still very much present. There are ruins of pre-Columbian villages where the Anasazi and Pueblos lived. Visiting Santa Fe is like taking a trip back in time. The mythical town of Santa Fe is one of the symbols of the conquest of the West, often depicted in Westerns.

Saint Francis Cathedral

This cathedral was founded in 1884. Its hyspanic architecture fascinates visitors as it contrasts with the rest of the city's architecture. Inside the cathedral is part of La Parroquia, an adobe church destroyed during the Pueblo rebellion in 1680, which houses the Conquistadora, the oldest wooden Madonna in North America.

Practical information:

• 📍 131 Cathedral Pl, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States.
• ⏰ Tuesday to Friday: 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.Saturdays: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm. Sundays: 8:00 am to 12:00 pm . Closed on Mondays.
• 👛: free of charge
• 🕑 Please allow one hour for on-site visits.

San Miguel Mission

The San Miguel Mission is the oldest church in the United States. Built in 1626, this superb adobe church is a must-see in Santa Fe. It is located next to The Oldest House. The building is so named because it is considered to be the oldest house in the United States.

Practical information

• 📍 401 Old Santa Fe Trail, Santa Fe, NM 87501, United States
• ⏰ Every day from 10am to 3pm
• 👛 $8 standard rate. $5 reduced rate ( ages 6 to 17 and over 60. Free for children under 5.

The Museum of International Folk Art

The Museum of International Folk Art is unique in that it houses the world's largest collection of folk art. With some 125,000 objects from around a hundred countries and the region. The quality and rarity of the works on display make this a unique museum that is a must-see during your stay in Santa Fé. And as one museum can hide another, the Museum of Indian Arts & Culture is located inside the building, dedicated to the promotion of the Amerindian cultures of New Mexico.

Practical information:

• 📍 On Museum Hill, 706 Camino Lejo, Santa Fe, NM 87505, USA

• 👛 Between 7$ and 12$ If you are a resident or not of New Mexico.

• 👉 Billetterie

Although Santa Fe is located in a desert area of New Mexico, its climate is special due to its altitude. Temperatures can be very cool, especially after dark. Generally speaking, average temperatures fluctuate between 10°C (January) and 34°C (July). The rainiest months are September, July and August. To get the most out of Santa Fé, it's best to visit in mid-season, in April and May, or in October.

Santa Fe does have a municipal airport, but traffic is limited. Albuquerque Sunport International Airport has better connections and is a better base for those wishing to explore Santa Fe.