The Palace of the Governors is already billed as one of the oldest continuously occupied public buildings in the United States.
Now, the adobe structure bordering Santa Fe's historic plaza is being named as a national treasure.
The official announcement by the National Trust for Historic Preservation was made Wednesday afternoon. Santa Fe Mayor Javier Gonzales, cultural affairs officials and history buffs were in attendance.
Built in 1610, the palace is now part of the state history museum.
The preservation group says the building is deteriorating and there's a lack of funding for much-needed repairs.
The group says designating the palace as a national treasure should serve as a call to action for the state Legislature and supporters to raise money for restoration efforts.
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