If you travel in the southwest United States, you know about the cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde. You might have never heard of Montezuma Castle, however.
What exactly is Montezuma Castle?
Southern Sinagua farmers built this five-story 20 room dwelling between 1100 and 1300 south of Flagstaff, Arizona. Called Montezuma Castle, It occupies a cliff recess 100 feet above the valley floor.
Why is it called Montezuma Castle?
Early American settlers assumed it was built by the Aztec, therefore naming it Montezuma Castle. One structure, called Castle A, is badly deteriorated. It was once an imposing five-story apartment-like building with around 45 rooms. After all this time, many entrances are still visible.
Reliable water could be found in the creek and fertile land on the nearby terrace. Close by is Montezuma Well, a limestone sink formed long ago. It is still fed by continuously flowing springs. Crops, consisting of corn, beans, squash, and cotton, were irrigated by a canal system with its waters. The pit house dates to about 1050. Dwellings near it range in size from one-room houses to larger pueblos.
Was it a Large Dwelling?
Between 1125 and 1400 about 100 to 150 people lived here.
Why Was it Abandoned?
No one knows why the Southern Sinagua people migrated away by the early 1400s. Speculation includes overpopulation, depletion of resources, disease, spiritual beliefs, or conflicts.
Both the castle and the well have visitor centers with exhibits showing how the people lived in the area.
Where Can I Find More Information?
More information can be found at www.nps.gov, www.nps.gov’moca, and www.nps.gov/tuzi.
How Do I Get to Montezuma Castle?
If You Go: Montezuma Castle is located 50 miles south of Flagstaff off I-17.
What is the Weather Like?
Since this is in a high desert, it is hot. There is not much shade on the trail to the site, so be mindful of the sun and heat. Dress appropriately and take water with you.
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