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Introduction Situated at the middle of Rio Grande valley, Albuquerque is surrounded by natural beauty. Sandia and Manzano mountains are located to the east of the city while to the west are five volcanic cones. It is at the center of Native American pueblo country in New Mexico, the "Land of Enchantment." Albuquerque is the largest city of New Mexico and perfectly balances the past and the future. Originally a Spanish town, it was built on the site of the oldest farming civilization in North America. Modern Albuquerque is the focal point of the "Rio Grande Research Corridor," one of the nation's primary space-research complexes. The people of Albuquerque have preserved a high quality of life while fostering modern growth and economic development.
The climate in Albuquerque is termed "arid-continental." It is usually sunny and dry with very low humidity. Half of the annual precipitation falls between July and September in heavy afternoon thundershowers. During the winter one can ski on Sandia Peak and play a round of golf as well.
Area: 180.64 square miles (2000)
Elevation: 5,311 feet above sea level
Latitude: 35.11 N, Longitude: 106.61 W
Average Temperatures: January, 36.0° F; August, 76.5° F; annual average, 56.0° F
Average Annual Precipitation: 8.12 inches
Population: 494,236 as on 2005
Attractions * Albuquerque museum
* New Mexico museum of Natural History and Science
* Rio Grande Nature Center State Park
* Indian Pueblo Cultural Center
Festivals * National Fiery Foods/Barbeque Show in March
* Rio Grande Arts and Crafts Festival in March
* Native American dancing and feast-day
* Gathering of Nations Pow Wow in April
* New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair, in June
* Summerfest at Civic Plaza
* Feria Artistica in October
* Weems Artfest, in November