Centuries before Europeans arrived in the New World, the Acoma Pueblo tribe of New Mexico lived atop a 365-foot mesa plateau in a tribal settlement. They resided in hand-crafted adobe dwellings that were built using natural resources. The name “Acoma” means “People of the White Rock.” The site provided an effective defense against raiders due to the sheer rock faces of the mesa. Protected by the Pueblo’s isolation and location, the Acoma people have occupied the area for more than 1200 years, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States. Due to its elevation, Acoma Pueblo is often referred to as “Sky City”. The Acoma Pueblo, located about sixty miles west of Albuquerque, is designated as a National Historic Landmark. Several months out of the year, the Pueblo is open to visitors who can experience the traditions, artwork, architecture, and history of the tribe.