Brazil
Argentina
Bolivia
Chile
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
French Guiana
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela
Germany
Austria
Belgium
Croatia
Denmark
Slovakia
Slovenia
Spain
Finland
France
Greece
the Netherlands
Hungary
Ireland
Iceland
Italy
Luxembourg
Norway
Poland
Portugal
the United Kingdom
the Czech Republic
Sweden
Switzerland
Turkey
Canada
Mexico
the Dominican Republic
South Africa
Australia
Fiji
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Square · Santa Fe, New Mexico
Plaza and Palace of the Governors
Santa Fe’s central square, laid out by the Spanish in the early 17th century, and the adobe Palace of the Governors, under whose portal Indigenous artisans sell jewelry and pottery.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Plaza and Palace of the Governors
Santa Fe Plaza has been the city’s center since its foundation around 1610, and marks the end of two historic routes: the Camino Real, which came from Mexico City, and the Santa Fe Trail, opened in the 19th century from Missouri. Around the tree-shaded square with benches are adobe and pueblo-style buildings, shops, galleries and restaurants.
On the north side stands the Palace of the Governors, a long adobe building with a wooden portal, built in the early 17th century as the seat of the Spanish government. It is considered the oldest publicly used building in continuous use in the United States. Under the portal, authorized Indigenous artisans sell directly silver and turquoise jewelry, pottery and other items, in a museum program that guarantees provenance.
The palace and the neighboring building form the New Mexico History Museum, which tells the region’s story from Indigenous peoples to the 20th century, with documents, objects and maps.
The Plaza hosts concerts, festivals and markets throughout the year, such as the Indigenous market in August, one of the largest in the country.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours with the museum.
Best time
In the morning, when artisans set up their tables under the portal. In summer, the Plaza has late-afternoon concerts.
How to get there
It is in Santa Fe’s historic downtown, a few minutes’ walk from the regional train station and public parking lots.
Tip
Items sold under the portal are made by the sellers themselves, and it is common to talk with them about technique. Ask before photographing.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Plaza and Palace of the Governors
What is the Palace of the Governors?
The adobe building on the north side of the Plaza, built in the early 17th century as the seat of the Spanish government and considered the oldest public building in continuous use in the United States. Today it is part of the New Mexico history museum.
Are the items sold on the Palace of the Governors’ portal authentic?
Yes. Only Indigenous artisans authorized by the museum’s program sell there, and each artisan sells their own work.
When is the Santa Fe Indian Market?
In August, over one weekend, with hundreds of Indigenous artists in booths around the Plaza. Dates change each year; check and book accommodations early.