Two miles south of Pecos on Hwy 63, Pecos National Historical Park preserves the ruins of one of the largest ancient pueblos as well as two mission churches built by Franciscans in the 17th and 18th centuries. The American Indian population dwindled over the years because of famine, European disease, emigration and the changing needs of the mission. In 1838 the remaining Pecos people moved to Jemez Pueblo. Visitors can walk through the ruins on a 1.25 mile self-guiding trail. Guided tours are available on request. A visitor center has a film depicting Pecos' history and displays hand-carved furniture, artifacts from excavations, tin chandeliers and original artwork. Picnic facilities are available. Closed Dec. 25.

Click to go to Pecos National Historical Park's own Web site. You will locate other web pages at NMohwy.com that are very much like Pecos National Historical Park at National Parks & Monuments.

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Visit New Mexico Travel Guide' interactive American History project. A team of researchers is developing a site that will present U.S. history in the context of present day travel.

Find all kinds of Parks in Pecos .