The 148-acre Los Luceros ranch represents the northernmost outpost of New Mexico Historic Sites, sitting north of Española along the Rio Grande near the village of Alcalde. Beyond its bucolic scenery is the fact that it holds the status of one of the state’s best-preserved and most historically significant properties. With roots in the nearby pueblos that border it, Los Luceros has a history that stretches through colonial New Mexico through the development of Anglo art colonies and even Georgia O’Keeffe.

Its centerpiece is a 5,700-square-foot, 18th-century Territorial-style adobe hacienda which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The property also includes a visitor’s center, three residences, an 18th-century chapel, the original village jail, numerous farm buildings, apple orchards, irrigated pastures and bosque on the Rio Grande.

As the state’s newest Historic Site, it serves as a test case for developing a cultural destination with interpretative exhibits and public access; a retreat center; and a center for crop-growing and environmental studies programs.