WUPATKI PUEBLO
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| The main structure |
Welcome to the
main attraction of Wupatki National Monument. What may have been Arizona's first "planned
community" (think: Medieval Anthem), this community built on the edge of the Colorado Plateau includes
a 100-room pueblo, ballcourt and community gathering arena. Archeological discoveries on the site suggest that
a mixture of cultures inhabited this area during the 12th century. Its location
at the crossroads of major travel routes coupled with the excavation of myriad
pottery and architectural styles indicate that Wupatki may have been an important way station for commerce. A nicely paved path with placards
corresponding to a guide book available in the visitor center threads among the
ruins. Of particular note are how the stone
structures were engineered to take advantage of natural geological features.
Like most folks, the inhabitants of Wupatki loved a good
ball game, and just downhill from the big house, a reconstructed ballcourt
tells a silent story of an imaginative community that blended hard work with serious playtime.
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| ballcourt |
LENGTH: 0.5
mile loop
RATING: easy,
paved, some stairs
ELEVATION: 4,900'
PETS: are not allowed on any park trails in buildings.
Please do not leave pets in cars---heat
can be fatal.
THE RULES: as with all archeological sites, it is illegal to
tkae or damage anything. Take only
pictures, leave only footprints. Also, do not climb or sit on teh fragile
ruins.
FACILITIES: restoom, visitor center, vending machines
GETTING THERE:
From Flagstaff, travel north on US 180 to milepost
444.5. Turn right and continue 13
miles to the turn off on the
right. Roads are 100% paved.
INFO: National Park Service, 928-679-2365
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