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Taos - From Fortified Plaza to Artists' Colony
Taos (from Don Fernando de Taos) was established between 1780 and 1800. It was originally constructed as a Spanish fortified plaza ringed by low adobe buildings. To say the least, this must have made for an interesting dynamic with the long established Taos Pueblo, which is just 2.5 miles away. Even so, it was certainly different from the Jemez Pueblo, where the Spanish made the Jemez Indians move down the valley and took the best spot (now Jemez Springs) for themselves. Also vastly different from Cusco, where they conquered the Incas, tore down their structures and built on their foundations.
The town grew and became an important center for trade on the Santa Fe Trail. Taos became noted as an artists' colony in the late 19th century and retains that influence and charm to this day. Parking can be a problem but you may use the walking map to find your way around. Don't miss the John Dunn House Shops, a quaint area just northeast of the Plaza. You may eat at Ogilvie's and overlook the Plaza.
