Artifacts Gallery

Not so long ago, students were taught that the Anasazi people "disappeared" from Mesa Verde after a drought of over 20 years drove them out. According to legend, these people were never seen again. Now, we know a different tale. It is the story of 24 Southwestern tribes, including the Hopi, Zuni, and numerous Pueblos, whose oral history links them to the Ancestral Pueblo people once inhabiting the mesa tops and cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde. Archaeologists support this connection by noting the similarities between artifacts and cliff dwellings discovered at the related sites. While the stories told about these ancient people change over time, you can form your own stories about these people by studying the artifacts they have left behind. Take a look at these pictures, and see if you can begin to imagine the life they must have led. What can you infer about them? What questions do these artifacts raise? And most importantly, what does this all mean for you today?

Cliff Palace	Wall Painting
Kiva	Petroglyph
Basket	Sandal
Cradleboard	Necklace
Spear and Knife	Mano and metate with bowl
Mug	Kiva roof and courtyard

Click on each image for a larger picture and description. Enjoy!

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