El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro -- The Royal Road to the
Interior Lands -- was the official "Road from Spain" bringing
the first colonists to the region beginning in 1598 -- 22 years
before the Mayflower. This emigrant trail brought thousands of
Spanish and Mexican colonists to New Mexico until the arrival of
the railroad in the late 1800s. The unique culture, history and
people of New Mexico trace their roots to the Camino Real.
Though not used for over a century, remnants of the Camino Real,
Indian pueblos, and other cultural sites along the trail are
being preserved today. The towns and villages along the Rio
Grande, and the Camino Real, are some of the oldest settlements
in North America. El Camino Real is a National The Center museum
contains award winning exhibits and artifacts presenting the
history and heritage of this famous trail - and the unique
history that formed the American Southwest. Our museum
replicates 1600s life in Mexico and New Mexico and suitable for
visitors of all ages. present the h