The Mesa Verde Area represents the ancestral homeland of the current-day Pueblo people, whose nations are now located in an arc stretching from the Hopi villages in Arizona to the Pueblos along the upper Rio Grande in New Mexico. These people are represented by the Pueblos of Acoma, Cochiti, Isleta, Jemez, Laguna, Nambe, Picuris, Pojoaque, Sandia, San Felipe, San Ildefonso, Ohkay Owingeh, Santa Ana, Santa Clara, Santo Domingo, Taos, Tesuque, Zia, Zuni and The Hopi Tribe.
The history and vibrancy of today’s Pueblo people live on in their traditions, dances and artistic expressions. Trading posts and festivals provide visitors an opportunity to view traditional dances and experience the timeless artistic traditions of weaving, pottery, jewelry making and other art forms. Although many artists are still quite traditional, some artists are diverting from tradition and exploring new mediums.
Another way to experience the life of today’s Pueblo people is to visit their tribal cultural centers and museums or to observe one of their annual Pow-wows or Feast Days, where visitors may view the revenant dances and songs offered on those days. Pow-wows and Feast Days bring tribal members together to renew their culture, language, and native religion.
Connect with Mesa Verde County on social media and share your adventures with #ExploreMesaVerde.
