Our Southwest road trip continued as we left behind the crisp mountain air of Durango, Colorado, and set our sights on Albuquerque, New Mexico. The drive south took us through vast desert landscapes, winding highways, and glimpses of the Rio Grande. As we descended from the high country into the sprawling basin where Albuquerque sits, we were met with the warm embrace of the New Mexico sun and the promise of a city rich in history, culture, and delicious food.
A Flavorful Welcome at Sadie’s
Arriving in Albuquerque just in time for lunch, we made our way to Sadie’s, a local institution renowned for its authentic New Mexican cuisine. We had heard rave reviews about their enchiladas, and they did not disappoint. Smothered in rich, flavorful red and green chile (because when in New Mexico, you say yes to "Christmas" style), the enchiladas were everything we had hoped for: spicy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying. Accompanied by fresh chips and salsa that packed just the right amount of heat, this meal set the tone for our day in Albuquerque.
An Evening in Old Town During Día de los Muertos
After lunch, we made our way to Old Town Albuquerque, the historic heart of the city. Established in 1706 as a Spanish colonial outpost, Old Town remains a charming district of adobe buildings, narrow streets, and lively plazas. It was the perfect place to immerse ourselves in the region’s deep cultural roots, made even more vibrant by the fact that we were visiting during Día de los Muertos.
As the sun began to set, the streets filled with people dressed in colorful calavera (skull) face paint, wearing elaborate costumes, and carrying marigold bouquets. Altars dedicated to lost loved ones stood in shop windows, adorned with candles, food offerings, and intricate sugar skulls. Musicians played traditional folk tunes, and the air buzzed with a unique blend of reverence and celebration. We wandered through artisan markets, stopping to admire handcrafted jewelry, pottery, and paintings that paid tribute to both indigenous and Hispanic influences. The festive atmosphere made our visit to Old Town unforgettable.
Albuquerque’s history dates back centuries, with indigenous Pueblo people inhabiting the region long before Spanish explorers arrived in the 16th century. In 1706, the city was officially founded as La Villa de Alburquerque, named after the Spanish Duke of Alburquerque. The settlement became a vital stop along the Camino Real, the historic trade route connecting Mexico City to northern New Spain. Over the years, Albuquerque has grown into a dynamic city that blends Native American, Hispanic, and Anglo influences, making it one of the most culturally diverse places in the Southwest. And yes, it is know today as the location of the hit series Breaking Bad! You can find a gift shop in the old town as well as various filming locations throughout the city.
Albuquerque: The Gateway to Our Route 66 Journey
As our day in Albuquerque came to an end, we couldn’t help but reflect on how this city serves as a bridge between the past and the future. With its rich history, culinary delights, and deep cultural traditions, Albuquerque was more than just a stop on our road trip, it was an experience that left a lasting impression. The next morning, we would embark on the next leg of our journey, heading west along the legendary Route 66 toward California. Stay tuned for our upcoming posts, where we’ll share our adventures along the Mother Road and all the unforgettable stops along the way.
Now I want to see what you have been up to. Link down below and share with the rest of us!
What "Through my lens" is about
This
meme is about sharing your favorite blog post with the rest of us. The
themes are open, there is only one rule: the images have to be taken by
you. I want to see your photography!
How this Photo meme Works
1. Share your favorite post under the linkup button below and follow the instructions there
2. Only share the url of your post, not the url of your main page
3. In your post link back to this post of "Through my lens" and visit others!
![Winter Weekend in Mogorjelo [Through My Lens Nr. 275]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx6VhKycNaSeD5d1S9WvKIWa8PcaWro2MY5cTLTZw5iD6y8L2eVWgWrnOTgxkAk1phIVQr269UMZP61dmUO_lOIrTePKf5zPzveIjXhsmkAcmbruW6NhZKiyLenj6XggL6UR7ZCFCF-0sg/w72-h72-p-k-no-nu/5D107871-DC51-4B26-8BA6-72B1D6FC6EBB.jpeg)
![Spring has Sprung [Through My Lens Nr. 34]](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGGy_y0m7ei6f1xdJO8rk5_gu6RbkmxrcqL6OKJba44pxAkuLBr0JNoDJVeqL3eKIr8C3dJ_mGAl3SrKOfRTh-j8wrCay4FrXOxXPmfgWBV9kcEieZUsNWjFYfArIxCLfk8eXjz13gjaHR/w72-h72-p-k-no-nu/IMG_34.jpg)
The Vintage Hippie Joint! I love it! Another delightful post. I'd love to spend some time in New Mexico.
ReplyDeleteLove the food and shop fronts!
ReplyDeleteYou captured Albuquerque well with your photos. Yes, the food there is really special. I hope you had a green chili cheeseburger, a local speciality.
ReplyDeleteNew Mexico has some beautiful towns--Albuerque is one! I love the green chilies form Hatch New Mexico--they are a favorite here in Colorado.
ReplyDeleteThe building with the lanterns is great
ReplyDelete