Archeology is the study of human history and prehistory through the excavation and examination of material remains, such as artifacts, structures, and landscapes. Many national parks in the United States contain important archeological sites that provide insight into the lives of past cultures and civilizations.
Some examples of national parks that contain significant archeological sites include:
- Mesa Verde National Park in Colorado, which contains the well-preserved cliff dwellings of the Ancestral Pueblo people.
- Chaco Culture National Historical Park in New Mexico, which preserves the remains of an ancient Pueblo civilization that flourished in the area between 850 and 1250 AD.
- Tulum National Park in Mexico, which contains the ancient Mayan city of Tulum, a well-preserved coastal fortress.
- Tuzigoot National Monument in Arizona, which preserves the ruins of a Sinagua pueblo village.
- Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa, which contains more than 200 prehistoric mounds, some of which are shaped like animals and are believed to have been built by the Effigy Mound culture.
- Pecos National Historical Park in New Mexico, which preserves the remains of an ancient Pueblo village and a Spanish mission, providing a glimpse into the history of the area from prehistoric times to the late 1800s.
These are just a few examples, but there are many national parks throughout the United States that contain important archeological sites that offer a glimpse into the past. Many National Parks have ongoing archeological research and excavation activities, visitors can often get a chance to learn about and see the ongoing work through ranger-led tours or other educational programs.