"The Essence of Old Taos"Adjoining the original home of La Doña Luz Lucero de Martinez, parts of the building date to as early as 1802. It is constructed in the traditional way of adobe mud bricks with walls two feet thick, vigas (ceiling beams) and latillas (ceiling decking).

La Doña Luz , The Lady Light, was well known for her gracious hospitality, hosting some of the only cultural soirées in this remote mountain village of Northern New Mexico. An educated lady of her time, she and her family provided lodging in Taos and entertained visiting dignitaries with music, conversation, food and libations.

Her Father-in-law was Don Severino Martinez, patriarch and builder of the Martinez Hacienda. It is the best preserved Spanish Colonial hacienda in The United States and is now a living museum. Her brother-in-law "Padre Martinez", the renegade priest and visionary in the fields of religion, politics, and education, was immortalized in Willa Cathers book, Death Comes For The Archbishop and Fray Angélico Chávez' book, But Time and Chance: The Story of Padre Martínez of Taos, 1793-1867

Located next door is El Rincón Trading Post and Museum. Established in 1909 as "The Mission Shop" by early artist, photographer, craftsman and trader, Ralph Meyers, it is the oldest Indian curio shop in Taos. Within its historic walls you'll discover the atmosphere of an original trading post. The museum features a wonderful collection of items acquired through many decades of trading with the Native and Spanish people.

Your host, Paul "Paco" Castillo is Ralph's Grandson and shares his family’s rich heritage and knowledge of New Mexico. Taught the art of jewelry making at an young age by his grandmother Rowena, he creates one-of-a-kind pieces for collectors and even a few movie sets!

A consummate builder, he has lovingly restored and added to this two hundred year old adobe home, drawing on his lifelong exposure to the "Old Taos" aesthetic.

His most rewarding....and most challenging job was raising two sons on his own. Somehow, they all survived! They are now both pursuing degrees in the sciences at New Mexico Institute of Technology.

Paco has created a wonderful and unique inn offering artistic hospitality in the Taos Tradition. We invite you to be our guests at La Doña Luz Inn, An Historic Bed and Breakfast.