 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Welcome!
Some
text here to explain context of the project, synopsis of what it's all
about, University of Pennsylvania, the graduate program, etc.
Welcome to the site, etc.
 |
||
| Cliff Palace at Mesa Verde National Park, 2000. | ||
The
approximately 600 cliff dwellings in Mesa
Verde National Park represent the apex of architectural sophistication
of the Northern San Juan Anasazi culture. The cliff dwellings, the final
product of 600 years of cultural development on the Mesa Verde, were built
between CE 1200 and 1300, and were abandoned shortly thereafter. The spectacular
setting and the well-preserved state of these structures resulted in Mesa
Verde being the first nomination by the United States government to the
World
Cultural Heritage Sites List. Moreover, descendants of these ancient
peoples, the Pueblo Indians of Arizona and New Mexico, continue to venerate
these sites, representing a cultural continuity unique for North America
and much of the world. Excavation and preservation has been continuous
since Mesa Verde became one of the first National Parks in 1906. The structures
interpreted to the public have been preserved over the years with a minimum
of repair and replacement, resulting in a cultural resource of great integrity
and authenticity. A renewed project of conservation and site management
is now underway as part of the Save
America's Treasures Program for 2000-2002.