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Ancient Trading Routes Of New Mexico’s Puye Cliff Dwellings Revealed

Published:

by Marilyn Elizalde

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Have you ever wondered about the ancient trading routes of New Mexico's Puye Cliff Dwellings? These remarkable structures, carved into sandstone cliffs, were once home to the Ancestral Pueblo people. They thrived here from the late 900s to the late 1500s. The cliff dwellings served not just as homes but as bustling centers of trade and culture. Imagine the vibrant exchanges of goods, ideas, and traditions that took place along these routes. From turquoise and pottery to corn and textiles, the trade networks connected distant communities. Let's dive into the fascinating history of these ancient pathways and uncover the secrets they hold.

Ancient Trading Routes of New Mexico's Puye Cliff Dwellings Revealed

The Puye Cliff Dwellings in New Mexico hold secrets of ancient trading routes that connected various indigenous communities. These routes were vital for the exchange of goods, ideas, and culture. Let's uncover some of the key locations that played a role in this ancient network.

Chaco Canyon

Chaco Canyon was a major center for trade and culture. Its massive stone buildings and intricate road systems suggest it was a bustling hub.

  1. Great Houses: These multi-story buildings served as administrative and ceremonial centers.
  2. Road Networks: Extensive roads connected Chaco Canyon to other regions, facilitating trade.
  3. Artifacts: Items like turquoise, shells, and pottery found here indicate a wide trade network.

Bandelier National Monument

Bandelier National Monument, with its cliff dwellings and petroglyphs, offers a glimpse into the lives of the Ancestral Puebloans.

  1. Cliff Dwellings: These homes carved into the rock provided shelter and storage.
  2. Kivas: Circular ceremonial rooms used for religious and social gatherings.
  3. Petroglyphs: Rock carvings that tell stories of the people and their interactions.

Pecos National Historical Park

Pecos National Historical Park was a key trading post between the Puebloans and Plains tribes.

  1. Pecos Pueblo: A large settlement that served as a trading hub.
  2. Mission Church: Built by Spanish missionaries, it shows the blend of cultures.
  3. Glaze Ware: Pottery found here indicates trade with distant communities.

El Morro National Monument

El Morro National Monument, also known as Inscription Rock, was a landmark for travelers and traders.

  1. Inscription Rock: Travelers left carvings and messages on this rock, marking their journeys.
  2. Waterhole: A vital water source for traders and travelers.
  3. Petroglyphs: Ancient carvings that provide insights into the people who passed through.

Gila Cliff Dwellings

The Gila Cliff Dwellings offer a unique look at the Mogollon culture and their trading practices.

  1. Cliff Dwellings: Homes built into the cliffs provided protection and storage.
  2. Artifacts: Items like pottery and tools found here indicate trade with other cultures.
  3. Natural Resources: The area’s resources, like obsidian, were valuable trade items.

Taos Pueblo

Taos Pueblo is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the United States and a significant trading center.

  1. Multi-story Adobe Buildings: These structures housed families and stored goods.
  2. Trade Fairs: Annual events where tribes from different regions exchanged goods.
  3. Artisan Crafts: Items like pottery, jewelry, and textiles were traded widely.

Mesa Verde National Park

Mesa Verde National Park is famous for its well-preserved cliff dwellings and evidence of extensive trade networks.

  1. Cliff Palace: The largest cliff dwelling in North America.
  2. Spruce Tree House: Another significant dwelling with evidence of trade.
  3. Artifacts: Items like shells, copper, and pottery indicate trade with distant regions.

The Legacy of Puye Cliff Dwellings

Puye Cliff Dwellings offer a glimpse into the rich history of ancient trading routes in New Mexico. These routes connected various cultures, fostering trade and cultural exchange. The cliff dwellings themselves, carved into the rock, stand as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the people who lived there.

Exploring these ancient sites provides a deeper understanding of the region's history and the interconnectedness of early civilizations. The artifacts and structures found here tell stories of a vibrant community that thrived through trade and cooperation.

Visiting Puye Cliff Dwellings is not just a journey through time but also an opportunity to appreciate the enduring legacy of those who came before us. Their contributions continue to shape our understanding of history and remind us of the importance of preserving these cultural treasures for future generations.