And now back to Taos Pueblo

Red Willow Creek is also known as Taos Pueblo Creek or Rio Pueblo. Its source is Blue Lake - sacred to the Indians of Taos Pueblo - high up in the mountains between Taos Mountain and Mount Wheeler, the highest point in New Mexico at 13,161 feet. The river is the sole source of drinking water for the residents of the pueblo.

Taos Pueblo

Red Willow Creek and St. Jerome Chapel

The San Geronimo Mission, with its thick brown walls, houses a strong sense of history and tradition. Signs remind the visitors of the spiritual meaning of the surroundings. For a gratuity, guides offer tours that explain the significance of the peaceful serenity that is the visible sign of Pueblo faith (from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.). Residents donate artwork and hand-made clothing for the saints at the head of the altar. The Pueblo residents celebrate Mass at their church every Sunday at 7 a.m.

Taos Pueblo: The Ruins of the Old San Geronimo Church and the Cemetery

This building was originally constructed in 1619 by Spanish missionaries with Indian assistance and labour. It was destroyed in the Pueblo Revolt of 1680 and was reconstructed in 1706.

In 1847, the U.S. Army attacked Taos Pueblo in retaliation for the murder of U.S. Territorial Governor Charles Bent, a violent incident in the war with Mexico. Many of the children, elderly women and men barricaded themselves in the church. In an effort to remove them, the U.S. Army bombarded the demolished church, killing 150 Indians in the ensuing battle. Only the bell tower, which still stands, survived the bombardment. The courtyard of the church became a cemetery after the new chapel was constructed.