Penitentiary of New Mexico and particularly The Old Main, attracts visitors who are intrigued with its history. This old building witnessed a major prison riot in the 1980s and was eventually closed down in the end of the 20th century. Witness the decrepit building and learn about its intriguing past in special guided tours.
Closed now
Built by the Spanish in the early 1600s, this building is now on the list of American Treasures and is a Registered National Historic Landmark. From its construction, it was the seat of government in Nuevo Mexico (later New Mexico) for nearly three centuries. It is the oldest continually in-use building in the United States. Today, it houses an extensive museum collection, spanning the history of Santa Fe and the Southwest. Native Americans ply their arts and crafts outside the building facing the central Plaza, just as they have for over 400 years. Jewelry, pottery, kachinas and more are spread out on blankets for you to admire and purchase.
