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The Governor and his
staff deal with civil and business issues within the village and relations
with the non-Indian world. The War Chief and staff deal with the
protection of the tribal lands, resources and wildlife outside the
pueblo
walls. All adults who live on tribal lands are expected provide their
services for community duties when needed
The tribe holds its
culture and traditions very close to their hearts and their oral
traditions and native language is unwritten and unrecorded. Much of their
history, rituals and traditions are considered sacred and therefore
off-limits to non-tribal members. However, visitors to the
pueblo can
still marvel at the architecture and hospitality provided by the
pueblo.
Tourism, native crafts,
and food concessions are an important part of the
pueblo economy and
numerous vendors can be found within the
pueblo, displaying pottery,
silver jewelry, leather works, bread, and more. These shops are open to
the public, but unless a door clearly states it is a "shop,” no entrance
should be made to any building, as these are private homes.
One of the main
highlights of the
pueblo is the San Geronimo Church built in 1850. Though,
it is one of the "youngest” buildings in the village, it provides a
wonderful example of mission architecture, as well as an interesting look
at how the tribe incorporated their values into the Catholic religion. The
church, which is listed as a National Historic Landmark, continues to
serve as an active church and requests for "no photography” inside should
be respected.
The remains of the first San Geronimo Church, destroyed in 1874, can
also be seen sitting inside the cemetery. However, the cemetery itself
should not be entered by visitors.
One of the main events of
the summer is the annual Taos Pueblo Powwow, a gathering of spiritual
leaders and tribal members, that features costumed dancers, singers, and
other ceremonies, as well as a wide array of vendors and artists. Other
events are also held throughout the year.
The tribe also owns and
operates the Taos Mountain Casino just south of the
pueblo.
Taos Pueblo is open daily to the public
year round from 8 am to 4:30 pm, with the exception of special ceremonies,
tribal funerals, and a ten-week period during the late winter/early
spring. Fees are charged for admission and camera use.
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