Old Mesilla Village
Old Mesilla Village is a small historic area in Las Cruces, New Mexico. It is full of history, culture, and traditions. This cute village is in the middle of the Mesilla Valley, not far from the border with Mexico. In the 1850s, the village was built as a trading post. Since then, it has become one of the most popular tourist spots in the state. Here are some of the things that make Old Mesilla Village so special.
First, it’s important to know about this community’s history. In the 1840s, when Mexico still controlled the area, a group of Mexicans started a town called Old Mesilla. On the Camino Real, a trade route that went from Mexico City to Santa Fe, it was an important stop. As part of the Gadsden Purchase, which took place in 1854, the United States bought the land from Mexico. Old Mesilla then became a U.S. territory. During the American Civil War, the town was a stronghold for the Confederacy and the site of the famous Battle of Mesilla.
Today, Old Mesilla is a popular destination for visitors seeking a taste of the Old West. The village is home to many historic buildings, including the San Albino Church, which was built in 1906 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The church is known for its beautiful interior and stunning stained-glass windows. The Fountain Theatre is another popular place to visit in Old Mesilla. It has been showing movies since 1905 and is one of the oldest movie theaters in the United States that is still open.
The Plaza, which is in the middle of Old Mesilla, is one of the most well-known places there. The Plaza is a big open space with old cottonwood trees and adobe buildings on all sides. Locals and tourists alike like to hang out there, and it’s not unusual to see musicians playing traditional music or people selling hand-made goods. The Plaza is also where many annual events happen, like the Cinco de Mayo Festival and the Day of the Dead party.
Old Mesilla is known for more than just its historical sites and cultural events. It is also known for its food. Many restaurants in the village serve traditional New Mexican food like green chile enchiladas, posole, and sopapillas. One of the most popular spots is La Posta de Mesilla, which has been serving authentic Mexican food since the 1930s. The restaurant is in a historic building made of adobe, and it has a lovely courtyard with a fountain and colorful tiles.
If you like to shop, Old Mesilla has a lot of shops and galleries where you can buy unique, hand-made crafts and art. Many local artists have their studios and galleries in the village, which is known for its lively arts scene. People can find everything from paintings and sculptures to pottery and jewelry.
One of the best things about Old Mesilla is that it feels like a community. Even though the village is a popular place for tourists to visit, it has kept its small-town feel. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and visitors are often struck by the warmth and hospitality of the people who live there. There are also many events and festivals in the village that honor the culture and traditions of the area.
Overall, Old Mesilla Village is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Las Cruces or the surrounding area. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, there’s something for everyone in this charming village. Old Mesilla is a truly unique and special place. It has famous landmarks and historic buildings, as well as a lively arts scene and friendly people. So, if you’re ever in New Mexico, be sure to stop by Old Mesilla and see for yourself how magical it is.