The Valley of Shining Stone: The Story of Abiquiu

Nestled amidst the mesas and canyons of northern New Mexico, the Valley of Shining Stone, known as Abiquiu, is a place where time seems to stand still. This enchanting valley has captivated the hearts and minds of countless visitors, inspiring artists, writers, and seekers of spiritual solace. With its rich history and breathtaking natural beauty, Abiquiu is a testament to the enduring spirit of the American Southwest.

The Origin of Abiquiu

Abiquiu derives its name from the native Tewa language, meaning "the place of the Abiqú people." Native American tribes such as the Tewa, Navajo, and Hopi have all left their indelible mark on this region, shaping its distinctive cultural tapestry. The ancestral Puebloans were the first inhabitants, cultivating crops and building intricate stone dwellings nestled in the cliffs.

Valley of Shining Stone: The Story of Abiquiu

by Lesley Poling-Kempes (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11761 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	402 pages
Hardcover	:	346 pages
Item Weight	:	1.45 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.81 x 9.21 inches

FREE

European explorers arrived in the 16th century, led by the Spanish conquistador Juan de Oñate. He established a colony in Abiquiu and introduced Catholicism to the local population. The mission of San Juan Bautista was built in 1622 and still stands as a testament to the enduring Spanish influence on the area. The adobe walls of the church whisper secrets of a bygone era, inviting visitors to journey through time.

An Artist's Oasis

Abiquiu's true claim to fame, however, lies in its artistic heritage. It was here that one of the most influential American artists of the 20th century chose to create her sanctuary. Georgia O'Keeffe, renowned for her larger-than-life paintings of flowers and vibrant landscapes, fell in love with Abiquiu during a visit in the 1920s.

O'Keeffe purchased a property in Abiquiu in 1945, a magnificent adobe compound that would become her cherished home and studio. The rugged beauty of the desert, with its towering cliffs and endless vistas, became the backdrop for some of her most iconic works. Through her art, O'Keeffe immortalized the essence of Abiquiu and introduced its allure to the world.

Today, visitors can explore O'Keeffe's home by taking guided tours that offer a glimpse into the artist's creative process. The adobe walls hold echoes of her footsteps, and the windows frame the same awe-inspiring views that once inspired her visionary art. Abiquiu has become a pilgrimage site for art enthusiasts who seek to walk in O'Keeffe's footsteps and connect with her spirit.

A Spiritual Retreat

Beyond its artistic appeal, Abiquiu holds a profound spiritual energy that draws seekers from near and far. The area is famous for its stunning red rock formations, which are believed to have energetic properties. These ancient geological wonders provide a sacred space for meditation and reflection.

One of the most revered spots is the Aboriginal Cave, a hidden gem tucked away in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains. This mystical cave has been used for centuries by indigenous tribes for vision quests and spiritual ceremonies. It is said to be a portal to the spirit world, where one can experience a profound connection to the universe.

In addition to the cave, the Chama River and nearby Ghost Ranch offer peaceful retreats for those seeking solace and rejuvenation. The serene landscapes and tranquil waters create an ideal environment for meditation and self-reflection. It is no wonder that many spiritual retreat centers have sprung up in Abiquiu, drawing individuals who yearn for a deeper connection to themselves and the world around them.

Preserving the Legacy

Abiquiu has managed to retain its timeless charm despite the passage of years. As you explore the region, you will encounter traditional adobe homes, ancient petroglyphs etched into stone, and remnants of centuries-old civilizations. The locals, deeply rooted in their ancestral traditions, continue to preserve the heritage of Abiquiu.

The annual Abiquiu Studio Tour, held every October, allows visitors to experience the artistic vibrancy of the valley firsthand. Artists open their studios and showcase their works, providing a unique opportunity to interact with the creative community that thrives in Abiquiu. The tour also celebrates the enchanting landscapes that have inspired artists for generations.

Embrace the Magic of Abiquiu

Abiquiu beckons those seeking serenity, inspiration, and a deeper connection to the spirit of the Southwest. Whether you are an artist looking to delve into the vibrant local arts scene, a spiritual seeker in search of inner peace, or an explorer yearning for a place where time stands still, the Valley of Shining Stone is sure to mesmerize you with its timeless allure.

Valley of Shining Stone: The Story of Abiquiu

by Lesley Poling-Kempes (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	11761 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	402 pages
Hardcover	:	346 pages
Item Weight	:	1.45 pounds
Dimensions	:	6.14 x 0.81 x 9.21 inches

FREE

North by northwest from old Santa Fe is the winding road to Abiquiu (ah-be-cue'), Ghost Ranch, and el Valle de la Piedra Lumbre, the Valley of Shining Stone: mythical names in a near-mythical place, captured for the ages in the famous paintings of Georgia O'Keeffe.

O'Keeffe saw the magic of sandstone cliffs and turquoise skies, but her life and death here are only part of the story. Reading almost like a novel, this book spills over with other legends buried deep in time, just as some of North America's oldest dinosaur bones lie hidden beneath the valley floor. Here are the stories of Pueblo Indians who have claimed this land for generations. Here, too, are Utes, Navajos, Jicarilla Apaches, Hispanos, and Anglos—many lives tangled together, yet also separate and distinct.

Underlying these stories is the saga of Ghost Ranch itself, a last living vestige of the Old West ideal of horses, cowboys, and wide-open spaces. Readers will meet a virtual Who's Who of visitors from "dude ranch" days, ranging from such luminaries as Willa Cather, Ansel Adams, and Charles Lindbergh to World War II scientist J. Robert Oppenheimer and his colleagues, who were working on the top-secret atomic bomb in nearby Los Alamos. Moving on through the twentieth century, the book describes struggles to preserve the valley's wild beauty in the face of land development and increased tourism.

Just as the Piedra Lumbre landscape has captivated countless wayfarers over hundreds of years, so its stories cast their own spell. Indispensable for travelers, pure pleasure for history buffs and general readers, these pages are a magic carpet to a magic land: Abiquiu, Ghost Ranch, the Valley of Shining Stone.