New Mexico's Morning Star
For thousands of years people have touched this land, each adding to its story in their own way. Los Luceros is a place where the memories of those past have been preserved on the landscape, and its story is one unique to New Mexico. As Los Luceros enters a new era as an officially designated New Mexico Historic Site, we invite you to explore the deep and complex histories of this beautiful property.
The picturesque 148-acre property is located north of Alcalde on the east bank of the Río Grande. Upon arriving at the site visitors quickly realize why people have called the beautiful site home for more than six hundred years. The centerpiece of Los Luceros Historic Site is a magnificent Territorial-style Hacienda that houses centuries of history within its walls. Note: The Hacienda is closed for restoration until Spring of 2025. The property also includes a 19th-century capilla (chapel), Victorian cottage, guesthouse, and farmyard.
In a state blessed with numerous cultural gems, Los Luceros Historic Site is surely one of New Mexico’s most scenic and historically rich properties.
Visiting Information
Hours and Days of Operation:
Open Wednesdays through Sundays, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Mondays and Tuesdays
Admission:$7 for adults. Free for children 16 years and younger. NM residents with ID admitted free the first Sunday of every month. NM Seniors are free on Wednesdays. Admission is also included with Museum of New Mexico Foundation membership. To take advantage of these days and benefits please do not purchase tickets online, just check-in at the Visitor Center. We do not have timed entry.
Visit with a New Mexico CulturePass! New Mexico CulturePass allows one visit to each historic site for only $30. Learn more HERE.
Phone: 505-476-1165
Our Designations
Designations are official recognitions of natural and historic resources that document a property's significance and why it is worthy of preservation.
New Mexico
Historic Site
2019
Audubon Important
Bird Area
2001
National Register
of Historic Places
1983
State Registry of
Cultural Properties
1970
Guiding Principles
The Department of Cultural Affairs and New Mexico Historic Sites' missions combined with deed restrictions for the property, and multi-cultural stakeholder consultation resulted in the following four principles upon which all site programs are planned and evaluated:
Preservation and Interpretation of Cultural Resources
Preserve and maintain the historic structures on the property and provide for opportunities to foster and interpret the history of the property.
Continuation of Traditional Agricultural Practices
Preserve the agricultural use of the property, specifically the apple orchard and pasture within the view shed of the Hacienda.
Conservation of the Natural Environment
Provide for the protection of the environmental elements on the property, specifically the irrigated lands, the Bosque, and the Rio Grande.
Community Engagement
Manage the property to enhance the quality of life and economic well-being for the local community and the State of New Mexico (residents and visitors).