Wupatki National Monument

Wupatki National Monument is a protected area of ​​the National Park Service of the type of a National Monument north of the city of Flagstaff, Arizona. In the 140- acre National Monument in 2600 almost prehistoric sites were discovered, including the ruins of pueblos of the Anasazi culture.

The history of the settlements is strongly influenced by the eruption of the neighboring volcano Sunset Crater in the years 1064/1065. Why in the region increased greatly after the outbreak of the previously sparse settlement activity is unknown. It is possible that improved water storage of the volcanic ash contributed to the fertility of the soil.

The Wupatki ruin was the largest known structure in the North American continent in the 12th century. In it lived between 85 and 100 people, the population of the surrounding environment is estimated at several thousand. The Anasazi lived on corn, squash and beans. They hunted pronghorn antelope and rodents, and gathered berries. They created the hand-painted ceramics, and wore clothes of woven and brightly colored textiles. Potsherds show that there were trade relations throughout the Southwest of the United States today.

Adjacent Reserves

• Sunset Crater Volcano Nation Monument
• Walnut Canyon National Monument