11 Most Endangered
Montezuma Castle
Year Listed: 1997
Location: New Mexico
Current Status: Saved
Threat: Deterioration, Neglect
Over one hundred years ago the Montezuma Hotel, also known as the "Castle" was bustling with visitors from around the world who flocked to New Mexico's San de Cristo Mountains by train to enjoy the natural hot springs and the destination resort developed by the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railroad. But by the mid-1990s, the hotel and its grounds were suffering from disrepair. The entire site was purchased for a college campus but while the university is interested in renovating the grounds, it is having trouble finding the funding to support such a massive undertaking.
Update
In 2000-2001, the building underwent a $10.5 million renovation, transforming it into an international center with student and faculty housing, dining facilities, offices, a campus store and student social center. The Castle also holds the Bartos Institute for the Constructive Engagement of Conflict. While many of the building’s magnificent interior and exterior details were restored, modern treasures were added, including two eight-foot glass sculptures designed specifically for the Castle’s enormous dining room by artist Dale Chihuly.
