.jpg)
Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park. Photo by Bob Riel.
In the 12th and 13th centuries, the Ancestral Pueblo Indians who were living in what is now southwestern Colorado decided to move down from the mesa tops where they had been living. They proceeded to construct a remarkable collection of cliff dwellings that could only be reached via either a steep trail or a set of hand and toe holds carved into the rock face.
By the turn of the 14th century, however, these dwellings had been abandoned, perhaps when a series of droughts affected the food supply and caused the population to migrate to a new home. Because of their protected position below a cliff face, some of these villages have withstood the elements and the ravages of time and they stand now as a tribute to the prehistoric culture of the American Indian.
Today, Mesa Verde is both a National Park and a World Heritage Site. Among the locations open to visitors are Cliff Palace, which is the largest cliff dwelling in North America . It contained 150 rooms and 23 kivas (sunken ceremonial rooms), and is believed to have held a population of about 100 people.
Following is a slideshow that gives you a view of some of the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde.
(All photos by Bob Riel.)
You might enjoy these other photo essays:
Comments
Fun photos of a fascinating place. It definitely deserves it's World Heritage status. Pauline Dolinski - History & Landmarks Examiner
I love Mesa Verde. These are excellent photos. I hope to be able to visit again soon. - Janet Raines / OKC Day Trip Examiner
My favorite childhood trip was to Mesa Verde. I am still hoping to get back there again.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!