Glen & Kris

Mesa Verde

This cliff dwelling, called "Cliff Palace" in modern times, was built between 1260 and 1280 AD. The Anasazi indians built about 150 rooms, 75 open spaces and 21 kivas (a room for ceremonies) here, all in a space that is about 215 feet wide, 90 feet deep and 60 feet high. Within a hundred years, all the inhabitants had left, perhaps due to drought or political change within their community. This is Square Tower House, built during the same time as Cliff Palace. Here is a view of Cliff Palace from across the canyon. Another small cliff dwelling. The dwellings were originally covered in red, yellow and white plaster, some of which is still visible here. This is Oak Tree House. This kiva was built in the 9th century. Kivas were used for ceremonies and gatherings. Kivas were usually half below and half above ground. The tunnel openings lead to other rooms. This is a view into the Sun Temple. It is on top of a mesa near the cliff dwellings. It was built without a roof and appears to have features that line up with astronomical events to mark the seasons. The nearby mesas were covered in twisted juniper like this one. <span class='myGreyFont'>[End of series. <a href='../index.html'>Return</a> to the Photos page.]</span>