" Dowa Yalanne, The Zuni Sacred Mountain"

(story regarding this Sacred Mountain may be orally related by one of the Zuni Tribe
at the permissible time of the year )

  Music Courtesy of Fernando Cellicion

Virtual Tour of Zuni .  Photo Slide Show

 Zuni, New Mexico...a place unspoiled by time. It could truly be where New Mexico obtained it's nickname the "Land of Enchantment" !

The Zuni are Pueblo people, descendants of the ancient Anasazi civilization, but the Zuni language is unrelated to any other Pueblo language. Zuni is spoken by more than 6000 people in New Mexico today.

The Zuni Pueblo, where you will locate "Dowa Yalanne", the sacred mountain and the surrounding areas of Zuni, are rich in culture and promise multi level experiences. Your attention will first be captured by the azure blue sky outlined with the multiple red rock outcroppings lavishly cloaked in pinon pine and other high desert flora and fauna. Yet, it isn't long before you can sense the mystery and magic permeating the very air around you. You can not visit the area without being absolutely enticed to photograph every square inch. There are not many, from the amateur to the prize winning professionals, who can resist.

Before you embark on your journey, remember you are a guest on the land that belongs to the Zuni Tribe. Despite the modern day facilities in town and the larger area of Gallup offering all of the franchises you are familiar with just 33 miles away; the Zuni people have maintained their culture that is centuries old and it is imperative to visit this region of New Mexico with absolute respect for a way of life which may differ from your own. Even in the public school district schools, the Zuni language is spoken and many classes are instructed in both languages.

The Zuni's have managed to honorably preserve their land and ways from many who would have wished to abuse it for monetary gain. You are permitted to hike in designated areas...do not disturb or remove any ancient artifacts you may happen across.

You must obtain a photo permit from the local Zuni Visitors Center, for $5. before taking any of those magnificent shots. The volunteers manning the center will be more than happy to guide you in where and when your camera is appropriate. It is absolutely forbidden to photograph certain areas during religious ceremony, as well as all religious ceremonies. If you are not sure, ask before clicking away.

You will find the Zuni People friendly, with bright smiles and contagious giggles. It is a living community reservation, as opposed to a historic museum or ruins; where the culture, spiritual traditions and religious ceremonies, passed down through generations, are active and thriving. The Zuni Religious Ceremonies may include processions and dance and you are expected to keep a respectful distance from all.

Mission Church

There are many things to see and places to visit, including the Zuni Mission where you will find the historic mission church and  famous murals of Zuni ceremonial figures that will transport you back in time. You will have to retain this memory within your mind, heart and spirit as there is no photography permitted inside.

You can enjoy a visit to a local neighborhood bakery where traditional Zuni bread is baked in earthen adobe ovens. There are multiple shops as well as galleries where you can find that special fetish or precious piece of art painted in lavishly bright Zuni colors.

Wall Art in A:shiwi Elementary School

Return to Visit our Online Zuni Art Gallery displaying the creative talents of the students of the Zuni Public School District. Our internet store will be loaded with  Zuni Art, Pottery, Jewelry and more....coming soon!

Wall Art in Twin Buttes High School

Thank you for Visiting Zuni !