Photo by Sally King Looking at this structure you might be thinking cistern or well, but water collection was not the purpose of this construction. Imagine this stone lined circular depression with a roof supported by large wooden beams or vigas. Those timbers would have been covered by layers of smaller wooden supports and then plastered with mud into a surface that could be walked on. An opening in this covering would have allowed access into this structure via a ladder. Inside this building important information was shared and decisions made. This was a kiva (KEE-vah), a center for religious and social activity. Kivas are still important in pueblos today. |
Last updated: April 28, 2025