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Secrets Of Colorado’s Ancient Stacked Stone Sites

Published:

by Teri Perea

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Have you ever wondered about the ancient stacked stone sites in Colorado? These mysterious formations, scattered across the state, have puzzled historians and archaeologists for years. Some believe they were built by Native American tribes for ceremonial purposes, while others think they served as markers or even ancient calendars. Imagine hiking through the rugged Colorado terrain and stumbling upon these intriguing structures. Each stone seems to hold a piece of history, waiting to be uncovered. Whether you're a history buff or just love a good mystery, exploring these sites offers a unique glimpse into the past. Ready to learn more about these fascinating relics? Let's dive in!

Colorado's Ancient Stacked Stone Sites

Colorado's landscape hides many secrets, including ancient stacked stone sites. These mysterious formations have puzzled archaeologists and intrigued visitors for years. Let's uncover some of these fascinating locations.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is a treasure trove of ancient stone structures. This park, located in southwest Colorado, offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.

  1. Cliff Palace: The largest cliff dwelling in North America, Cliff Palace features over 150 rooms and 23 kivas. Its intricate design showcases the architectural prowess of the Ancestral Puebloans.
  2. Spruce Tree House: Nestled in a cliff alcove, Spruce Tree House is the third-largest cliff dwelling in Mesa Verde. It has 130 rooms and eight kivas, providing a fascinating look into ancient life.
  3. Balcony House: Known for its challenging access, Balcony House requires visitors to climb ladders and crawl through tunnels. This 40-room dwelling offers a unique adventure and a peek into the past.

Chimney Rock National Monument

Chimney Rock National Monument, located in the San Juan National Forest, is another site rich with ancient stone structures. This area was once home to the Ancestral Puebloans.

  1. Great House Pueblo: Perched atop a mesa, Great House Pueblo offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. This structure, with its 36 rooms, served as a ceremonial and residential center.
  2. Chimney Rock Pueblo: This smaller site features several rooms and kivas. Its location near the twin spires of Chimney Rock adds to its mystique.

Hovenweep National Monument

Hovenweep National Monument, straddling the Colorado-Utah border, boasts a collection of ancient stone towers and structures. These remnants of the Ancestral Puebloans offer a glimpse into their ingenuity.

  1. Square Tower Group: This cluster of structures includes the iconic Square Tower, a multi-story building perched on the edge of a canyon. The group also features several other towers and kivas.
  2. Holly Group: Located in a remote canyon, the Holly Group includes the impressive Holly Tower and several other structures. Its secluded location adds to its allure.
  3. Cajon Group: This site features a large tower and several smaller buildings. The Cajon Group's strategic location suggests it served as a defensive outpost.

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument

Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, located in southwest Colorado, contains the highest density of archaeological sites in the United States. This vast area is home to numerous ancient stone structures.

  1. Lowry Pueblo: This well-preserved site features 40 rooms, eight kivas, and a Great Kiva. Lowry Pueblo offers a fascinating look into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.
  2. Painted Hand Pueblo: Named for the handprints found on its walls, Painted Hand Pueblo includes several rooms and kivas. Its remote location adds to its intrigue.
  3. Sand Canyon Pueblo: This large site features over 420 rooms, 90 kivas, and 14 towers. Sand Canyon Pueblo's size and complexity make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Ute Mountain Tribal Park

Ute Mountain Tribal Park, located on the Ute Mountain Ute Reservation, offers guided tours of ancient stone structures. This lesser-known site provides a unique perspective on the region's history.

  1. Lion House: This cliff dwelling features several rooms and kivas. Its remote location and stunning views make it a hidden gem.
  2. Eagle's Nest: Perched high on a cliff, Eagle's Nest offers a challenging hike and breathtaking views. This site includes several rooms and kivas, providing a glimpse into ancient life.
  3. Morris Three Kiva Pueblo: This site features three well-preserved kivas and several rooms. Its secluded location adds to its mystique.

Discovering Colorado's Hidden History

Colorado's ancient stacked stone sites offer a unique glimpse into the past. These structures, built by early inhabitants, reveal much about their lives, beliefs, and skills. Visiting these sites, like the ones in the San Luis Valley or the mysterious rock formations near Boulder, provides a tangible connection to history.

Exploring these locations isn't just about seeing old stones. It's about understanding the people who placed them there, their reasons, and the stories they left behind. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just curious, these sites have something to offer.

Next time you're in Colorado, take a moment to visit one of these ancient wonders. You'll gain a deeper appreciation for the state's rich history and the people who shaped it. Colorado's hidden history is waiting to be discovered, one stone at a time.