The Palatki Ruins, which are believed to have been occupied from 1130 to 1280, are located northwest of Sedona, Arizona. Known for the pueblos carved into the sandstone cliffs, these ruins also contain several sets of ancient pictographs and petroglyphs, which are estimated to be between 3,000 and 6,000 years old. One of Sedona's largest ruins, Palatki, which translates to 'red house' in the Hopi language, consists of two separate pueblo dwellings. The existence of dual pueblos suggests that two different family groups inhabited the area simultaneously. There are several other ruins nearby, including Honanki and Tuzigoot, which is located in Clarkdale, Arizona.
Formed as a result of underground springs, the Montezuma Well is a limestone sinkhole found near Montezuma's Castle. Formerly a large underground cavern, this natural well is surrounded by soaring Indian cliff dwellings. Historically, the site has served as a refuge for a host of communities, right from prehistoric groups to modern-age farmers. Given the high concentrations of carbon dioxide, arsenic, calcium and other chemicals, the well is home to extremely rare flora and fauna. Picturesque, historic and blessed with nature’s rarest gifts, the stunning Montezuma Well merits a visit by outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and photographers alike.
View the ruins of a once prosperous agrarian civilization from atop a high ridge. The people who lived here, the Sinagua, cultivated this land from about 1000-1400 A.D. Originally consisting of approximately 110 rooms, the structure at one time sported two to three stories in places. Take a tour of the visitor's center before you embark on your enriching and adventurous trail of this breathtaking monument. Enjoy the mesmerizing views of the desert landscape or discover more about the interesting lives of the Sinaguan Indians.
Among the country’s foremost National Monuments, the Montezuma Castle National Monument boasts rich history and heritage. Carved out of a limestone cliff, this prehistoric site is a five-story dwelling. Comprising nearly twenty rooms, this marvelous structure is believed to have taken close to three centuries to complete. Inhabited hundreds of years ago, much of the building is still intact. Apart from gazing at the exquisite site in sheer wonderment, you can visit the museum near the visitor center, which chronicles the stirring history of the region. At the base of the cliffs lies a splendid sycamore grove, which also welcomes visitors for leisurely wanderings.