In celebration of Santa Fe’s 400th anniversary, this logo design featuring the Sun symbol with adobe buildings under has earned the most number of votes and declared the official symbol of city’s three-year commemoration.

However, the Santa Fe 400th Anniversary Committee still needs the consent of indigenous tribe of New Mexico, the Zia Indians, to use their stylized Sun symbol. For many years, this sun symbol has been used without any permission from Zia. The committee promised to change its logo if they tribe do not approve it.

This Sun symbol, a red circle with rays pointing at four directions, is regarded by Zia Indians as sacred. It represents the important fours in their lives – 4 seasons of the year, 4 major directions in the compass, 4 seasons of life, 4 periods of each day, and 4 sacred obligations (have a strong body, clear body, pure spirit, and affection for others).

You can see this on the flag of New Mexico. Next year, the same design will be used on the New Mexico coin in the U.S. Mint’s 50 State Quarters series.

During the entire commemoration, education will be the focus next year. In 2009, local events will take the lead while the committee will concentrate on national and international events in the third year.

Via Sante Fe New Mexican