Aztec Ruins National Monument
AtoZ Places Bucket Location
Abandoned
Ancient Ruins
Caves
Desert
Forest
Ghost Towns
Historical
Hot Springs
Lakes
National & State Parks
Peaks
Rivers
Aztec Ruins National Monument in New Mexico is home to a complex of ancient ruins built by the ancestral Puebloans over 900 years ago. As I walked through the park, I was struck by the impressive masonry of the structures and the rich history and culture they represent.
One of the highlights of the visit was the Great Kiva, a large circular structure with a fire pit at the center. The Great Kiva was likely a sacred space used for important ceremonies and gatherings. I was fascinated by the intricate carvings and designs on the walls, and could feel the sense of awe and reverence that the space must have inspired in its original inhabitants.
Another highlight of the visit was the West Ruin, a multi-story complex with over 400 rooms. It was amazing to think about the engineering and construction skills required to build such a massive structure without the benefit of modern technology. As I explored the rooms and courtyards, I could almost imagine what life was like for the people who lived there so many centuries ago.
Overall, my visit to Aztec Ruins National Monument provided a fascinating glimpse into the lives and culture of the ancestral Puebloans, and a reminder of the incredible history and heritage that is all around us, waiting to be explored.
See the National Park Service for more details.
Aztec Ruins National Monument
New Mexico
San Juan County
36°50'04.5"N 108°00'00.8"W
725 Ruins Rd, Aztec, NM 87410
Directions: From Albuquerque/Bloomfield, NM Follow Highway 550 north into the City of Aztec, turn left at the “T” intersection onto Highway 516, drive 3/4 mile, then turn right immediately after crossing the river onto Ruins Road. Follow Ruins Road 1/2 mile to the monument. From Durango, CO Follow Highway 550 south into the City of Aztec. Highway 550 will become 516. Follow 516 and turn right immediately after crossing the river onto Ruins Road. Follow Ruins Road 1/2 mile to the monument. From Farmington, NM Follow Highway 516 east into the City of Aztec. 1/4 mile past Lightplant Road, turn left onto Ruins Road. Follow Ruins Road 1/2 mile to the monument.
Aztec Ruins National Monument - Aztec, New Mexico