Aztec Ruins National Monument
The Aztec Ruins National Monument in northwestern New Mexico, USA consists of preserved structures constructed by the Pueblo Indians nearly a thousand years ago. The national monument lies on the western bank of the Animas River in Aztec, New Mexico, about 12 miles (19 km) northeast of Farmington. Additional Puebloan structures can be found in Salmon Ruins and Heritage Park, about 9.5 miles (15.3 km) south. Archaeological evidence puts the construction of the ruins in the 12th and 13th centuries. The Puebloan-built ruins were dubbed the "Aztec Ruins" by 19th century American settlers who misattributed their construction to the Aztecs.The site was declared "Aztec Ruin National Monument" on January 24, 1923. "Ruin" was changed to "Ruins" after a boundary change, on July 2, 1928. As a historical property of the National Park Service, the monument was administratively listed on the National Register of Historic Places on October 15, 1966. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) listed the Chaco Culture as a World Heritage Site on December 8, 1987. That listing specifically included the Aztec Ruins.The monument is on the Trail of the Ancients Scenic Byway, one of New Mexico's Scenic Byways.The property was part of a 160-acre (65 ha) homestead owned by H.D. Abrams, who supported the ruins preservation. The H.D. Abrams House in Aztec is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
- 1 See also
- 2 References
- 3 External links
Links
Images Gallery
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The restored Great Kiva at Aztec Ruins
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NPS map
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Comments
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Very interesting place to visit, lots of places to explore and see ruins. There is still dig sights going on currently, Science! Takes about 1 to 2 hrs if rushing through or 3 to 5 if you take you time and enjoy it all. Watch out for the bats in the some of the ruins
a week ago -
Respectful preservation of American castle's built by the culturally advanced people. We really shouldn't have to drive all the way out here to learn so much. Talk to the rangers and people to learn more about this vibrant and alive location.
a month ago -
This is a must-see for anyone interested in the Pueblo Native Americans. What a gift to peek into their rich culture!
3 days ago -
Really neat ruins! Had a nice time walking around and seeing them. Trail is easy and under a mile. Make sure to check out the information in the visitor center too!
a month ago -
Staff is friendly and informative. Audio or pamphlet guided tour. Short walking trail lots of information and a neat video with history to start it all off.
a month ago -
Honestly, I had no clue what to expect. But we were driving this way after Mesa Verde, and decided to stop off. It was so interesting to walk around and through the ruins and learn about the people who constructed them and lived there. We spent about 30 mins in total here. I suggest listening to the accompanying National Parks podcast as you walk around. Not the best quality, but it helps you understand what you're looking at. Scan the QR code before going into the visitors center. Covid restrictions still apply. Only 4 allowed into the bookshop at a time. Rangers and bookshop only available/open Thursday-Sun, 9am-12pm and 1:30pm-5pm. Park gates close at 5pm. Restrooms were clean and had running water.
2 months ago -
The walk through was amazing. They have a QR code audio tour that you can play while you check out the ruins. Some local artists was selling some of his beautiful art. Very glad we randomly stopped here!
a week ago -
Amazing ruins. Arguably a better experience than Chaco Canyon and much easier to get to.
a month ago