Española and Surroundings

Our valley is rich with gifted artists and craftsmen. Native American and Hispanic weavings, a rich variety of pottery, tinsmiths, carved wooden furniture and decorations, and paintings abound. Northern New Mexico is a photographers paradise with mountains, rivers, and the rich colors in our mesas. The food of northern New Mexico is distinct from other areas of the state/nation. Our Native American and Hispanic food has a flavor of its own that draws people from great distances. The city of Española has a population of 9,688 within the city limits. However the Española Valley boasts of 30,000 people living within a 15 mile radius of the church. and a market base of 65,000. The predominant Hispanic culture offers a long history of family centered religious faith. The Roman Catholic Church has been and still is the dominant Christian faith expression for our area.   The Native American residents have an important presence with the eight pueblos centered along the Rio Grande Valley. We are blessed with a rich variety of pueblo traditions that are celebrated at various times throughout the year. The third primary ethnic group, Anglos, include a wide range of backgrounds including African Americans, Asians, and those of European descent. More and more people are moving into our valley from all over the world for a variety of reasons.       The Española Valley is home to many people who commute to work to Los Alamos and Santa Fe. Housing is more affordable here, which is an important factor. To learn more about the Espanola Valley, you can check out the Española Chamber of Commerce.