Historical Marker
Albuquerque on the Camino Real
Spanish settlers had lived here before the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, but the area was resettled when the “Villa de Albuquerque” was founded in 1706. In addition to promoting colonization, the new town was intended to provide protection from attacks by Indians in Rio Abajo, or lower Rio Grande Valley.
The state has a rich tradition of cowboy culture and rodeo, with many annual events celebrating this heritage. One of the most famous is the annual Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, which features hundreds of hot air balloons and draws thousands of visitors each year.