Founded in 1706 by a group of Spanish colonists, Albuquerque retains much of its early cultural heritage. Parts of an original adobe chapel as well as other original historic buildings survive to this day. The past is very much alive in Albuquerque and it is a distinctive part of the United States. Beyond sampling the famously spicy food and fine tequilas, there are many things to see and do in Albuquerque.