New Mexico

Information and Tourism

Known as the Land of Enchantment, New Mexico definitely has something about it that makes it stand out from many other US states. For a start, there is no sense of being overcrowded here, because it is relatively sparsely populated. It also boasts a rather unique cultural make-up that includes a mix of Hispanic, Native American and All-American influences. Take a look around and you will see that the state's landscape is one of haciendas, age-old missionary churches and Navajo settlements. In fact, the Navajo Nation extends into the northwestern part of New Mexico.

New Mexico's modern history began with a Spanish settlement that was set up at the end of the 16th century. In 1848, the territory was acquired by the US following the Mexican War. The Apache Wars played out here, only coming to an end when the Apache leader Geronimo finally surrendered. The saloons and gambling halls of Lincoln, New Mexico, were the backdrop to the legend of William 'Billy the Kid' Bonney. This infamous American outlaw was finally sentenced to death for cattle rustling and murder.

Despite the fact that New Mexico's capital city, Santa Fe, is relatively modest in size, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to creativity and culture. Artists, photographers and sculptors seem to be drawn here in high numbers, attracted by the landscape around them and the city's top-end galleries. The American painter Gerogia O'Keeffe spent most of her life in New Mexico, inspired by its barren landscape and desert flowers.

New Mexico isn't just an artists' dream, it also has a more high-tech side. Laboratories in Los Alamos play a leading role in research into nuclear, solar and geothermal energy. The state also has a very rich seam of natural resources, which include uranium.

New Mexico Information and Fast Facts

• Country: USA
• Population: approximately 2.2 million
• Capital city: Santa Fe
• Biggest city: Albuquerque
• Biggest urban area: Albuquerque Metropolitan Area
• Language: American English
• Area: 121,590 square miles / 315,200 square kilometers
• Number of state parks: 31

	WORLD GUIDES TO NEW MEXICO
	World Guide to Albuquerque, NM, USA Albuquerque is a sprawling city and New Mexico's only major metropolis. Featuring a population of around half a million, this is a thriving city, with a major strip mall, nearby mountains and a number of important old structures.
	World Guide to Santa Fe, NM, USA One of the oldest cities in the USA, Santa Fe dates back to the early 15th century. Located in the state of New Mexico, Santa Fe offers a range of historic sightseeing opportunities, often clustered around the vibrant downtown district.
	World Guide to Taos, NM, USA A popular part of New Mexico, Taos began life as an important Spanish Colonial outpost. Taos is close to the Rio Grande River and consists of three main regions, central Taos the Ranchos de Taos, and the Taos Pueblo area.

Map of New Mexico