Albuquerque

    Located in the high desert, just a one hour train ride (free on Wednesdays for Seniors) from Santa Fe, Albuquerque is New Mexico's largest city. Founded as the Spanish Colony of "Villa de Albuquerque" in 1706, it was named after Francisco, Duke of Albuquerque, who served as Vicroy of New Spain from 1653 until 1660. But before the Europeans had arrived, the Tanoan and Kereson Native American peoples had inhabited this area for centuries. Petroglyphs engraved into volcanic rock just west of the city give proof of their presence. After the arrival of the Europeans, Albuquerque became a sheep herding center of the west. "Old Town" Albuquerque was designed in the traditional Spanish pattern of a central plaza surrounded by government buildings, homes, and a church. Strategically located, Albuquerque was ideally suited for a military garrison. So, Mexico built one here in 1821. Between 1846 and 1863, the American military occupied the city, establishing their own Federal Garrison and Quartermaster depot. When the Atchison, Topeka, and Santa Fe railroad arrived here in 1880, growth of the city exploded. Albuquerque was incorporated as a town in 1885 and as a city six years later.

Francisco, Duke of Albuquerque, Viceroy of New Spain between 1653 and 1660.

The heart of all Spanish colonies is the central Plaza, as this one in Albuquerque's "Old Town."

Of course, no Spanish plaza would be proper without a church along its edge; such as the San Felipe de Neri church in Old Town, Albuquerque.

Built in 1793, it is one of the oldest surviving buildings in the city.

Throughout "Old Town" are monuments to its Spanish heritage.

Known now as the "Church Street Cafe", Casa de Ruiz (meaning "the house of Ruiz") is a local eatery legend.

Built in the early 1700's as a residence for the Ruiz family, it has remained in the family ever since. It did not become a restaurant until 1991. And what a great restaurant it is. Not only is the food delicious, it is also quite reasonable.

A short distance from Old Town is the "new" Albuquerque Plaza.

For the third time during our adventures, we were able to stand on part of the historic Route 66.