Seeing as though Colorado was once a prosperous mining location and hotspot for the railroad, it should come as no surprise that the state is home to several historic cities and towns… but which of these towns is the oldest of them all? We have the answer — and the history — of the oldest town in Colorado and why you should visit:

Located in southern Costilla County, San Luis de la Culebra (which is now known as simply San Luis) was established in 1854 and is considered to be the oldest permanent settlement in Colorado.
Wikimedia Commons
Still predominantly Spanish, the town was founded by Hispanic settlers who had been establishing small towns throughout the area.
Wikimedia Commons
On April 9, 1851, the settlers took official possession of the area thanks to the Sangre de Cristo Land Grant.
The "Oldest and Friendliest Town in Colorado" was named for its patron saint (St. Louis) in 1851 and remained part of the New Mexico territory until 1861, when the Territory of Colorado was official established.
Flickr/Jimmy Emerson, DVM
Since its founding in the 1800s, San Luis (and its current 700-some residents) has remained proud of its rich culture and history, which can be seen throughout the town.
Flickr/JBColorado

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When you visit San Luis, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for the distinct and original Spanish architecture...
Town of San Luis, Colorado
...stunning Stations of the Cross shrine...
Flickr/JBColorado
The incredible shrine consists of 15 life-size bronze statues depicting the 15 stations of the cross.
...and the wide-open and colorful San Luis Valley.
Flickr/Jeffrey Beall
Did we mention that San Luis is also home to some delicious restaurants, fabulous boutiques, and fascinating museums?
Yelp

For even more of these historic towns, click on Here Are The 12 Oldest Towns In Colorado… And They’re Loaded With History.

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