Though the little town of San Luis may seem like a mere dot on the plains that stretch across the expansive San Luis Valley, the town’s roots run deep and provide fascinating insight into Colorado’s early past.
As the state’s oldest town, San Luis was established in 1851, not long after the land became part of the United States following the Mexican-American War. Hispano settlers from northern New Mexico ventured into the unsettled territory, becoming the area’s first non-Native American residents. These founders followed a communal way of life, farming and digging the public irrigation ditches that would garner the first water right in Colorado. They also shared pastureland where livestock grazed. Called La Vega, this plot of land on the southeast edge of town remains in communal use today, making it one of the country’s last remaining commons. Early villagers also opened a general store in 1857 that, remarkably, is still doing strong business on its original site—in the hands of the same family. Now called R&R Market, it's the oldest continuously operating business in Colorado.
At San Luis’ heart is a traditional town center, which is now recognized as the Plaza de San Luis de la Culebra National Historic District. The district encompasses the original Sangre de Cristo Parish church, which remains the center of Catholic worship in San Luis today. Enjoy an intimate view into the church's past by spending the night in one of the its former residences, which has been transformed into the El Convento Bed and Breakfast.
Did You Know?
The town’s religious roots can be further explored at the more contemporary Stations of the Cross Shrine, known locally as “La Mesa de la Piedad y de la Misericordia” (or The Mesa of Piety and Mercy). A series of gripping, lifelike bronze sculptures are presented along a path that winds up a nearby mesa to an adobe chapel. The monument is the work of local artist Huberto Maestas, whose initial works on the shrine were presented to Pope John Paul II and are currently in the permanent collection of the Vatican Museum.
Good to Know Before You Go:
San Luis is located within a short driving distance of some of Colorado’s most remarkable natural attractions. To the north lies the Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve, which is bordered by the dramatic Sangre de Cristo Mountains. The San Luis Valley is also home to two watchable wildlife areas—Monte Vista and Alamosa National Wildlife Refuges—as well as numerous hot springs and the Rio Grande River.
ADA Accessibility:
Numerous activities in San Luis and the surrounding area are accessible to those with disabilities. For specifics, contact the Town of San Luis Visitor Center.
Town of San Luis Visitor Center
408 1/2 Main St., San Luis, CO 81152
www.slvguide.com/Costilla/index.htm
(719) 672-3002
This project is partially funded by a State Historical Fund grant award from the Colorado Historical Society.
Colorado's Historic Sites
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