National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service: U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
 
 
Making America's Best Idea Even Better
Montezuma Castle National MonumentMontezuma Castle
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Montezuma Castle National Monument
Join Our Friends
Friends Of The Well

Cliff Ruin at Montezuma Well

Friends Of The Well

Montezuma Well is not really a well, but a limestone sinkhole sourced by subterranean springs. It was named for the Aztec Emperor, Montezuma II in 1864 by Texan soldiers on expedition from Fort Verde. It is doubtful that Montezuma was ever anywhere near the Well, but the name stuck.

The area is rich with archaeological finds referencing the numerous cultures to find their way to Montezuma Well. Some were just passing through on pilgrimage, others settled at this unique oasis in the desert. The Well, considered sacred to many, is still being used today by many Native American tribes for religious and ceremonial purposes.

Friends of the Well (FOTW) is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of Montezuma Well National Monument located in central Arizona just south of Sedona. Learn more about FOTW and our mission.
1968 Divers at MOWE  

Did You Know?
Groups of divers have explored Montezuma Well nine times. This picture from 1968 shows one of the first expeditions. The divers found that the Well is 55ft deep with fissures for springs reaching 120 and 140ft deep.

Disclaimer Accessibility Privacy Policy FOIA Notices USA.gov

Last Updated: August 29, 2009 at 15:12 EST