The ancestral Pueblo people settled here around 550 A.D. Yes, long before Europeans came and took the land away. As a matter of fact, the Pueblo people left the dwellings in the late 1200's. The cliff dwellings were discovered in the 1800's and have been extensively excavated and studied. But since the Pueblo people had no written language, there is much that remains unknown. Our guide told us that he had Pueblo blood on his mother's side of the family. He was very informative. Here are some of my photos.
A third evolution of a large pit house. Pit houses were entered through the roof. They were in use from 550 to 750 A. D.
As I am struggling with some meds to treat a sinus infection, I will save my other pics for another day and call it a night.
Hi Denise - the history must be so interesting ... it's difficult for us Europeans who are so used to writing that we haven't needed oral traditions for so long. It's such a pity the history has gone and may never be recovered. I'd like to do something at some stage about the history from up here ... but so pleased you got to see the Mesa Verde lands. I hope the sinus clears up - cheers Hilary
ReplyDeleteVancouver has some fascinating history too. I really enjoyed my visit to the museum there.
DeleteBeen there, too, and have always wondered how many toddlers stumbled off those cliff walls... Morbid?
ReplyDeleteI figured I would be a stay-at-home mom. Who wants to climb a cliff to get home fromwork?
DeleteThese abandoned ancient dwellings in the southwest are fascinating. Judy and I saw the one at Chaco Canyon in New Mexico.
ReplyDeleteI didn't get to Chaco Canyon. Next time?
DeleteSomething else I've learned from your informative pieces! Get well soon Denise
ReplyDeleteI’m finally visiting after way too long. I’m so glad you visited this place but sorry to hear you have a sinus infection.
ReplyDeleteFascinating! I'd love to visit there, one day. Hope you're feeling better now.
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