Chaco Canyon, one wonders why settle here? Perhaps before 1250 the area was greener, the rain fall more plentiful, but not seemingly in this century. As one walks around the canyon and stops at Pueblo Bonito, you can't imagine how a large population could support itself here. How do you feed hundreds of people?
See: A Brief History of Chaco Culture National Historical Park
Trade routes must have fanned out with Mexico not too far south; okay the 2000 miles to Chichén Itzá in Yucatan, now that's far! But the distance didn't stop some trade in turquoise from the Cerrillos mines between Albuquerque and Santa Fe. And all this trade took place before the horse was introduced to North America.
When the horse came to play a prominent role in trade there were routes to the east and west, like the Old Spanish Trail leading to Los Angeles.
See: The Old Spanish Trail via NPS
Monday, January 19, 2009
Chaco Canyon
Labels:
Albuquerque,
Chaco Canyon,
New Mexico,
Old Spanish Trail,
Pueblo Bonito,
Santa Fe
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Sounds like a very beautiful and historic area. I really must go experience this part of the world!
ReplyDeletep.s. you should post more pictures from the area, if you have some!
cheers!
Flickr is coming up and have I got some great photos to share.
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