Palace of the Governors

The Palace of the Governors is an adobe building with thick walls and long wooden covered portals located on the north side of Santa Fe Plaza. The structure combines Spanish colonial and Pueblo architectural elements in its classic design.

Built in 1610, this structure is the oldest continuously occupied public palace in the continental United States. It originally served as the seat of Spanish colonial government in the region.

Native American artisans display and sell handcrafted silver jewelry, pottery, and traditional items under the covered portal every day. This ongoing practice reflects the continuation of skills passed down through families and communities over centuries.

The building is open daily except Mondays and functions as part of the New Mexico History Museum complex. Guided tours are available throughout the day for visitors seeking detailed information.

Governor Lew Wallace wrote his celebrated novel 'Ben-Hur' in 1880 while living in this building during his time as New Mexico Territory governor. This literary connection makes the site noteworthy for those interested in American letters.

Location: Santa Fe

Official opening: 1610

Architectural style: Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, Pueblo Revival Style architecture

Address: West Palace Avenue

Opening Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00-16:00

Phone: +15054765100

Website: https://nmhistorymuseum.org/about/campus/the-palace-of-the-governors.html

GPS coordinates: 35.68785,-105.93820

Latest update: December 20, 2025 02:59