Mesa Verde Administrative District

The Mesa Verde Administrative District includes six National Park Service buildings constructed between 1921 and 1927 on Chapin Mesa at 6,000 feet elevation.

The administrative buildings were constructed using sandstone from prehistoric structures under archaeologist Jesse Nussbaum's supervision, incorporating traditional Pueblo Revival architectural elements.

The buildings feature battered exterior walls, vigas-supported roofs, and plastered interior walls, reflecting the architectural traditions of indigenous Southwest peoples.

The district contains paved walkways connecting the museum, headquarters, post office, ranger dormitory, superintendent residence, and community building across three acres.

The Mesa Verde Administrative District marked the first implementation of culturally relevant architectural design principles within the National Park Service system.

Location: Montezuma County

GPS coordinates: 37.18443,-108.48829

Latest update: March 11, 2025 12:34