We are here to check Aztec Ruins National Monument.  Museum displays compare and contrast the Pueblo and Chaco civilizations through their pottery, architecture, and building techniques plus try to connect the dots between those populations and the many native tribes that have and still do occupy these lands.

The grounds protect a huge Pueblo settlement of which about half has been excavated.  Weather has taken its toll but enough remains to give a good idea of how it looked as-built.  A trail allows us to wander through the many rooms of this huge structure.  It is amazing.  The great Kiva has been rebuilt based on archeologic evidence.  There is still debate about exactly what the Kivas were used for but whatever that outcome, this structure is impressive.

Another cool feature, two green stripes of stone are built into the entire length of one exterior wall.  This feature has not been seen in any other ruins, Chaco or Pueblo, in the entire four corners area.   Cool. What’s that about?