Perched between Cottonwood and Clarkdale Arizona is the mysterious ruins of Tuzigoot.
As you pass over the Verde River and drive down the main road leading toward the pueblo village, there is a deep knowing that this area is sacred and unique.
Quiet and majestic are words that come to mind as your eyes meet this statuesque wonder. The ruins are clustered on top of a small sandstone ridge. Unusual species of birds inhabit the area, as well as the great horned owl.
During the day, hues of white, olive green and rose quartz pink, artistically watercolor the speckled prickly pair desert landscape that surrounds this structure.
When sunset breaks over the mountains, it sprays a rainbow of color that invigorates the mind. As shadows cast their highlights over the earthen haven, breath taking stars dot the night sky.
It is said that the first structure was built around A.D. 1000, by an ancient culture known as the Sinagua, also known as the Anasazi.
The Sinagua's were obviously aware of its greatness, as this is where they built their homes and thrived off of the land. They were agriculturalists with trade connections that spanned hundreds of miles. They hunted game and gathered seeds and nuts to sustain themselves.
By studying petroglyphs, artifacts, and comparatives of indigenous and Hopi groups, Archaeologists and anthropologists describe Sinagua rituals as being closely related to the flora and fauna of the area.
They utilized surrounding wild desert plants for practical and medical purposes. Stems and branches were used for fiber, fruits and flowers for food and roots for soap.
The Sinagua’s molded nature around them in a peaceful way without destroying it and mixed freely with other cultures. They adapted to a harsh environment, using natures rocks, boulders, water sources, flora and fauna.
Know one knows what happened to the Sinagua’s, as they just mysteriously disappeared around 1400.
As you think of the daily stresses…imagine living off the land and reverting to a primitive instinct that lie’s tucked beneath your conscious mind. Then walk over and switch on the light of modern convenience.
The great spirit of the Verde Valley Sinagua Indians will always be a part of us and remain in the essence of this land.
Comments
I absolutely love this article! What a pure naturally enchanting visual and spiritual environment--well painted with picturesque descriptive words.
The pic and video are beautiful; perfect for the story. Tuzigoot is a a magical place, we are ever so fortunate! ~~Thank You~~
Thank you for such an awesome piece on the Tuzigoot National Monument. Love the video.
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