ACOMA PUEBLO
The Oldest Community
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Acoma Pueblo is located just outside of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is a Native American Pueblo
that is made up of four villages: Anzac, McCartys, Acomita, and Sky City, which is also known as Old
Acoma. The communities only make up 10% of the overall land that that was once 5 million acres in
area. The tribe is federally recognized and the Acoma Pueblo is a National Historic Landmark.
“Acoma Pueblo is built atop a sheer-walled, 367-foot sandstone bluff in a valley studded with sacred,
towering monoliths. Since 1150 A.D., Acoma Pueblo has earned the reputation as the oldest continu-
ously inhabited community in North America. The mesa-top settlement is known worldwide for its
unique art and rich culture.” – Acoma Sky City
There are more than 250 dwellings that house the nearly 5,000 remaining tribe members. None of
these dwellings have sewer systems, running water, or electricity. Some may say that the community
is outdated, while others argue the beauty of maintaining lost customs and preserving ancient art
forms.
One place to admire the community is through the Haakú Museum, which is located in the Sky City
Cultural Center. Tours and museum walk-throughs are available daily, but it is best to call ahead for
set times and exhibits. In the museum, you will be able to explore everything from the earliest days at
Acoma Pueblo, to modern art forms and current happenings within the community.
Adventure Outdoors | Spring 2018 | 33