News Release

Hovenweep National Monument: This month’s National Park Getaway

NPS Photo

News Release Date: December 6, 2016

Contact: Sierra Coon, Hovenweep National Monument, 970-562-4282 x10

CORTEZ, Colo. – Walk in ancient footsteps. Soak in the silence. Marvel at a night sky overflowing with stars. Hear a lone coyote’s howl. Experience the past at Hovenweep National Monument.

Hovenweep preserves six villages once inhabited by the ancestors of today’s Pueblo people. These structures evoke an ancient time—one filled with the sights and sounds of a vibrant and dynamic culture. Family groups built their homes at the heads of canyons, surrounding life-giving seep springs that provided water, cooler temperatures, and shade from the cottonwood and hackberry trees that grew there. Perched on the canyon rims, these villages have weathered the centuries, owing to their solid foundations and careful construction. The towers and rooms of Hovenweep are unique in the style and quality of their masonry. Stones are carefully shaped and small rocks and mortar fill the gaps between, keeping out sun, cold, wind, and any small creatures. Read more

The National Park Getaways series helps people find new places to connect with nature, history, family, and friends. This month’s Getaway featuring Hovenweep National Memorial is the 265th installment in the series.
 
 

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