About Zuni Pueblo
Zuni People
The Zuni are Pueblo people, descendants of the ancient Anasazi civilization, and the Zuni language is unrelated to any other Pueblo language. Zuni is spoken by more than 6,000 people in New Mexico today.
You will find the Zuni people friendly with bright smiles. 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. These ceremonies may include processions and dance, and you are expected to keep a respectful distance from all.
Beauty of the Desert
The Zuni Pueblo is where you will locate Dowa Yalanne, the sacred mountain. The Pueblo and its surrounding areas are rich in culture and promise multi-level experiences. Your attention will first be captured by the azure blue sky outlined with 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.
Making Your Journey
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, the Zuni people have maintained their own culture that is centuries old. 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, 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 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.
Taking Photos
You must obtain a photo permit from the local Zuni Visitors Center for $5 before taking photos. The volunteers at the Center will be happy to guide you to where and when your camera is appropriate. It is absolutely forbidden to photograph certain areas during religious ceremonies, as well as the ceremony itself. If you are not sure, ask before clicking.
Sites to Visit
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 with 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. |
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Mission Church
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