Send us a text

Note: Audio Only, See YouTube For Full Video 

Step back in time with me as we explore the ancient wonders of Tsankawi at Bandelier National Monument. This remarkable archaeological site offers a rare window into the lives of ancestral Puebloan people who made these cliffside dwellings their home centuries ago.

Walking through what was once a bustling central plaza, I discovered pottery fragments scattered across rocks—tangible connections to those who lived here long before us. As tradition dictates, these artifacts remain undisturbed where they were found, preserving both archaeological integrity and respecting native beliefs that removing such items means taking ancestral spirits with you.

The cave dwellings themselves tell fascinating stories of ingenuity and adaptation. Natural cavities in the cliff face were skillfully enlarged and enhanced with smoke-blackened ceilings and plaster walls for insulation and strength. Imagine climbing ladders as your daily commute, moving between different levels of these vertical neighborhoods! From inside these ancient homes, perfect viewing portals frame distant landscapes, including snow-capped mountains—the same views enjoyed by residents hundreds of years ago.

Perhaps most moving are the petroglyphs etched into stone surfaces throughout the site. Spirals, directional markers, human figures, and handprints speak across time, though their exact meanings remain mysterious. When my hand perfectly matched an ancient handprint carved into rock, I felt an intimate connection spanning centuries—two humans touching across time.

Whether you're fascinated by archaeology, indigenous culture, or simply appreciate breathtaking landscapes with rich histories, Senkawi offers something truly special. Join me on this journey through time, and remember to respect and protect these precious sites so future generations can experience the same wonder. Have you visited any ancient dwellings? I'd love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!

Support the show