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| History and Description of the Metropolitan Albuquerque Regional Area - Search Home and House Property Listings |
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Catholic missionaries first settled the area that would become Albuquerque in the early 1600s. They found tribes of Pueblo Indians, Don Francisco Cuervo y Valdez founded Albuquerque in 1706.  It was who were indigenous to the area and who claimed much of the fertile land. After the Indian population declined, their land became available to the Spanish colonists. Colonial Governor named in honor of Spain's 10th Duque de Alburquerque (the first "r" has since been dropped). The colonists chose a price spot along the river where it provided good irrigation for crops, a rich source of wood from groves of cottonwoods, willows and olive trees, and a vista of the surrounding mountains.Life in New Mexico offers a unique blend of Native American, Mexican, and European cultures. There are 19 working Native American pueblos in the north central part of New Mexico, each with its own government and religious practices. Some Native Americans sell their traditional crafts of jewelry, dolls, pottery, baskets, drums, and rugs to visitors, who come to the pueblos for festivals or tours. 139 miles west of Albuquerque, Gallup is the largest Native American center in the country and is home of "America's Largest Cottage Industry," the production of Native American arts and crafts. New Mexico's vibrant cultural history is apparent throughout the state. Uninhabited ruins of the ancient Anasazi can be explored at Chaco Canyon, Canyon de Shelley, and at Aztec Ruins. Explorers from Mexico first encountered the Native Americans in their search for the Seven Cities of Cibola in the mid-1500s.  Europeans arrived in the area en masse during the Civil War battles of Glorieta Pass and Valverde. These diverse groups thrived in the "Land of Enchantment" and their cultures combine to create a place unlike any other. The starkly beautiful natural landscape brings the past to life and provides continuity in the present. Albuquerque is an excellent place to raise a family. There are several outlets for education and entertainment. The Albuquerque Aquarium offers an opportunity to see the aquatic life while staying dry. There are several other places and organizations that may be of interest such as: Botanic Garden and Conservatory, Albuquerque zoo, museums, community centers, Los Altos Skate Park, Bicycle Safety Program, Hunter Saftey, Rafting Classes, Model Rocketry, Kayaking Classes, New Mexico Safe Kids, Fishing Clinic, Effective Cycling, WOW Campout, and several libraries.
There are 25 elementary schools, 11 middle schools, 7 high schools in Albuquerque's public school district. There are also 9 private schools. Post secondary education is offered at University of New Mexico in Albuquerque.  The real estate market of Albuquerque is diverse and very affordable. Townhouses and condominiums are abundant in the area and prices start well below $100,000. Many inexpensive properties feature outstanding amenities, such as community pools, washer/dryers, fireplaces and outside storage buildings. Prices range into the low $200,000s for larger, newer properties. Single-family detached homes can also be found to fit any budget. Single-story, two- or three-bedroom homes are available from under $100,000, while prices for large estate properties featuring outstanding mountain or valley views can exceed $800,000s. Many such homes also feature amenities such as private swimming pools, tennis courts and spas. Plenty of land and lots are available for custom development. |
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