Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, located in the four corners region of southern Colorado, is the largest concentration of Native American ruins in the US. Mesa Verde is a short drive away and there are pueblo ruins seemingly everywhere around here. The reservoir above was dammed in 1985. The resulting reservoir submerged many ruins. These were scoured for artifacts prior to the dam being built. The result was an immense collection, now housed in buildings associated with the Visitor Center. There is a fraction of the collection on display there.
A short trail leads to this mesa top pueblo behind the Visitor Center. It appears this construction was the base for wood structures above. Note the doors' "T" shape.
A short distance away is the Lowry Pueblo site. This pueblo is under a protective roof.
Note the small shim stones used to push the mortar into place.
Entrance below ground level
Its over 100 degrees outside but cool in here. This appears to be a family kiva with drying racks.
Still standing
The great kiva at Lowry was likely a ceremonial gathering spot for the pueblo.
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