Penitentiary of New Mexico, Maximum security prison in Santa Fe County, United States
Description
The Penitentiary of New Mexico is a correctional facility comprising multiple security levels housed in separate buildings south of Santa Fe along State Road 14. The complex contains areas designed to hold inmates at varying custody classifications.
History
The facility opened in 1885 and drew upon design principles from other major American prisons of that era. Over time it became a significant correctional institution in the Southwest region.
Culture
New Mexico became the first western state to employ inmates in highway construction projects starting in 1903, establishing a new model for prison labor programs.
Practical
Visitors should familiarize themselves with visiting guidelines and registration procedures, as strict security protocols apply throughout the site. Planning ahead by checking access requirements and necessary documentation is advisable before arrival.
Did you know?
The 1980 riot at this facility remains recorded as the most severe prison uprising in United States history, resulting in 33 inmate fatalities.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Santa Fe County).
This collection brings together penal institutions that have marked the history of incarceration worldwide through their architecture, detention conditions, or roles in major historical events. From the Guantanamo Bay naval base in Cuba, established in 2002 for holding individuals suspected of...
El Rancho de las Golondrinas
4.9 km
Santa Fe Rail Trail
6.7 km
The Santa Fe Reptile and Bug Museum
6 km
Jardín botánico de Santa Fe
5.6 km
Leonora Curtin Wetland Preserve
5.6 km
Acequia System of El Rancho de las Golondrinas
4.7 kmTank
2.9 kmDrum Poles
6.9 kmMountain Village
4.7 kmThe Downs
2.8 kmF-111 Fighter Jet
6.6 kmThe Bridge at Santa Fe Brewing
3.8 kmEntertainment Space
4.7 kmEdge Contemporary
5.4 kmSanta Fe Country Club
7.6 kmPeace
7.1 kmHaiku Station
7.3 kmPlaza Salazar
4.9 kmHare
7.3 kmDinosaurs
5.3 kmZia
45 mKokopelli
58 mPen Zia
767 mWork of art, sculpture
7.3 kmSculpture, Work of art
5.3 kmWork of art, sculpture
5.2 kmWork of art, statue
7.1 kmJet
2.8 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes