Indian Ruins

or more than a thousand years, Native Americans inhabited much of the land in and around Sedona, Arizona, and there are several well-preserved historic sites for the visitor interested in Native American history to enjoy and marvel at.

Chief amongst these is the remarkable Montezuma's Castle, cliff dwellings dating back to 1150 A.D. This stone structure rises to 5-storeys above the valley floor, and although you cannot enter the ruins themselves, there are excellent views from the base of the cliffs.

Eleven miles north of these cliffs is the water well, a natural sinkhole that provided irrigation for ancient farmers. It is an altogether unexpected sight in this otherwise dry and arid landscape. Several small dwellings are situated around the sinkhole to take advantage of the pristine waters, and as you walk around the old meadows, you will appreciate the importance of water for the farmers and their families.

The Casa Grande ruins contain an imposing 4-storey building, dated to about the 14th century. It is situated on the flat plain of central Arizona, at a place where, during the spring, temperatures can reach 110 degrees. It is sometimes the hottest place in the United States. The structure was part of a network of settlements scattered along canals irrigated by the Gila River and can be seen from several miles away over the flat terrain.

Though there are many theories, it is not known why the people of this area seemed to vanish around 500 years ago. For those interested in Native American history, the heritage they left behind and how they lived many centuries before the settlers arrived, you only need look around Sedona and marvel at their accomplishments. For more information, visit the Sedona rock formations website.

Enquire at Sedona Real Inn & Suites for details on tour options available to visit this historic site.