https://www.nps.gov/moca/index.htm
https://www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/54814
First thing I wanted t know is how it got its’ name. When the Early American settlers found the structure they thought the Aztecs built it and named it Montezuma Castle. This is a structure built into the side of the canyon, 100 feet above the valley built by the Sinagua farmers. It is 5 stories tall and has 20 rooms. It is badly dilapidated because over the years looters and age have caused it to wear down faster. The castle used to be about 5 stories tall with around 45 rooms. The Sinagua farmers used the the nearby creek for water and the terrace had fertile land for growing their crops. Again, these Native Americans planted corn, beans and squash. These 3 crops were really all they needed to survive. Men would hunt rabbit, deer and other mammals. The women would watch the children, grind the corn, make baskets and pottery and cook. Living on the edge of a cliff was not an easy task for anyone. The Sinagua lived in the area from 1100 and 1300. No one knows why they slowly migrated away. Speculation is there might have been disease, overpopulation, resources were depleted, conflicts within the group or even spiritual beliefs. It is thought that these Southern Sinagua migrated northward to the pueblo villages.
Grindstones found at the site.
Footwear found at the site.
Ceilings were about 5 feet high. No open concept here!
The beams sticking out are made from the cypress trees found nearby.
This is the tree the beams are made from – what circumference!
Outer buildings for living or food storage.
Cut-away diorama of the Sinagua living in their dwelling.
Frantic mom chasing her child heading to the roof edge.
Women making baskets.
Hunter returning with dinner.
In this year of COVID-19, the park system has come up with many ways to deal with the social distancing. One of the ways is by using these decals depicting animals to relate to what 6’ is in real life. Also , here at this monument they have a Gender Neutral restroom – the first one we have seen labeled as such! When entering any souvenir store, they only allow a certain number of people in the store. This store allowed 10 people at a time.
6’ – the length of a javelina.
6’ – enjoy your national park.
6’ – the length of 3 ringtails.
6’ – the width of a car.
6’ – the length g a dog leash.
Gender Neutral Restroom
