Place guide
Zia Pueblo
A small Keresan pueblo whose sun symbol was adopted as the central emblem of the New Mexico state flag.
📍GPS: 35.506293, -106.721826
Zia Pueblo (Tsi’ya)
Zia Pueblo is a Keres-speaking Pueblo located along the Jemez River. The village has been continuously occupied for centuries, and archaeological evidence shows the Zia people have lived in the area since at least the 1200s. Today, the Pueblo is best known as the origin of New Mexico’s famous Zia Sun Symbol, though the symbol remains a sacred cultural emblem to the Zia people.
Zia Sun Symbol
The Zia Sun Symbol appears on the New Mexico state flag and has become one of the state’s most recognizable icons. For the Zia people, the symbol represents the sacred significance of the number four, reflecting the four directions, four seasons, four times of day, and four stages of life.

Feast Days & Public Ceremonies
Some events may be open to visitors, while others are private, restricted to community members, or closed without notice. Access, schedules, and photography rules can change, so visitors should confirm directly with the Pueblo before attending.
- Easter Sunday — Easter Dances
- May 3 — Annual Feast Day of Our Lady of Guadalupe (traditional dances following Mass)
- December 24–28 — Christmas Dances (times and locations vary)
Visiting Respectfully
New Mexico’s pueblos are living communities, not museums. They are sovereign tribal nations with their own governments, laws, and traditions. When visiting, remember that you are a guest on tribal land.
- Obey all posted signs and respect areas marked as private or off-limits.
- Do not photograph people, homes, religious activities, or ceremonies without permission.
- During dances and ceremonies, remain quiet and avoid crossing ceremonial areas.
- Do not remove pottery shards, artifacts, plants, or other objects from pueblo lands (you will be cursed).
- Observe all posted speed limits and traffic laws. Going 5 mph over can get you a ticket.
Nearby places
Jemez Pueblo
The sole Towa-speaking pueblo set in the scenic Jemez Mountains known for its distinctive red pottery.
Santa Ana Pueblo
A Keresan pueblo known for the Tamaya Resort and Santa Ana Star Casino.
Albuquerque
New Mexico's largest city, known for the International Balloon Fiesta, historic Route 66, and the Sandia Mountains.