Salinas Pueblo Missions Natl. Monument

Within the 645-acre Salinas Pueblo Mission National Monument, near Mountainair, are three geographically and historically related pueblos and 17th-century spanish Franciscan Missions. The area includes the former Gran Quivira and two former state monuments, Abo and Quarai. The abandonment of the "Salinas Jurisdiction" by both the Tompiro and Tiwa Indians and the Spaniards in the late 17th century, due to cultural and environmental pressures, and the lack of resettlement have left the masonry ruins remarkably intact. A visitor center on Hwy 60 a block west of Hwy 55 offers a 10 minute slide presentation and an art exhibition depicting region history. For more information 505-847-2528.