ABOUT JEMEZ PUEBLO
Since time immemorial the Jemez people have maintained their traditional way of life, a life supported by strong values, deep cultural respect, and the unique Towa language. The Pueblo of Jemez is a federally recognized tribe located 50 miles northwest of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Jemez is one of the remaining 19 Pueblos of New Mexico, encompassing over 89,000 acres of land and home to over 3,400 tribal members. The people of Jemez cherish their ancestral customs and integrate their culture with modern society. The Pueblo of Jemez is a sovereign nation with an independent government and tribal court system.

Location: North-Central New Mexico, approximately 50 miles northwest of Albuquerque
Area: 89,000 acres of land
Population: 3,400 tribal members
Language: Towa

HISTORY AND CULTURE

The Pueblo of Jemez (pronounced “Hay-mess” or traditionally as “He-mish”) is one of the 19 pueblos located in New Mexico. It is a federally recognized American Indian tribe with 3,400 tribal members, most of whom reside in a puebloan village that is known as “‘Walatowa” (a Towa word meaning “this is the place”). Walatowa is located in North-Central New Mexico, within the southern end of the majestic Canon de Don Diego. It is located on State Road 4 approximately one hour northwest of Albuquerque (55 miles) and approximately one hour and twenty minutes southwest of Santa Fe.

The Pueblo of Jemez is an independent sovereign nation with an independent government and tribal court system. The secular Tribal Government includes the Tribal Council, the Jemez Governor, two Lt. Governors, two fiscales, and a sheriff. The 2nd Lt. Governor is also the governor of the Pueblo of Pecos. Traditional matters are still handled through a separate governing body that is rooted in prehistory. This traditional government includes the spiritual and society leaders, a War Captain and Lt. War Captain.

The Jemez people originated from a place called “Hua-na-tota.” The ancestors of the Jemez Nation, migrated to the “Canon de San Diego Region” from the four-corners area in the late 13th century. By the time of European contact in the year 1541, the Jemez Nation was one of the largest and most powerful of the puebloan cultures, occupying numerous puebloan villages that were strategically located on the high mountain mesas and the canyons that surround the present pueblo of Walatowa.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Welcome to Jemez Pueblo (Walatowa) where you’ll witness an enlightened combination of red rocks, and mesa tops companioned by cedar, cottonwood and aspen trees, shadowed by enchanting mountains blanketed by aromatic juniper and white pine trees. Nestled just below the mountains is the village of Walatowa.

Walatowa means “this is the place”. The people of Walatowa pride ourselves on the preservation of our native language where over 90% of the people speak Towa, a Tanoan language.

We are close-knit families raising children and caring for elders. Our community reposes itself in culture, tradition, and remote living. We ask that our visitors respect our community by checking in with the Governor’s Office prior to access. Please visit our visitor’s page more information on visitor etiquette.

PUBLIC EVENTS AND FEAST DAYS

Traditional dances are held throughout the year at Jemez Pueblo, many of which are open to the public. The public is welcome to share in certain events, particularly the “Nuestra Senora de Los Angelas Feast Day de Los Persingula”, held on August 2nd (Pecos Feast of St. Persingula), and the “San Diego Feast Day” on November 12th.

HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday – Friday, 8:00am – 5:00pm