Aztec Ruins National Monument

Aztec Ruins is an archaeological site with over 400 interconnected rooms and multiple ceremonial spaces positioned on the western bank of the Animas River. The masonry structures built by Puebloan craftspeople remain standing and show the scale of settlement that once flourished here.

Puebloan peoples built this settlement chiefly between the 12th and 13th centuries, completing the main complex within roughly 30 years. The rapid pace of construction suggests a large and well-organized community undertook this ambitious project.

The reconstructed Great Kiva reflects how Pueblo communities gathered for religious ceremonies and communal events in this circular sacred space. The careful stonework throughout the site shows the importance these people placed on shared spiritual life and collective rituals.

The site offers free admission and walking trails like the Aztec West Trail for self-guided exploration of the ruins. The visitor center contains exhibits with ancient artifacts and information to help you understand what you are seeing.

The site preserves original wooden ceiling beams from around 900 years ago, demonstrating how Puebloan craftspeople selected and worked with trees. These visible timbers offer visitors a direct window into the building methods and resource gathering of this ancient society.

Location: New Mexico

Inception: January 24, 1923

Website: https://nps.gov/azru

GPS coordinates: 36.83682,-107.99981

Latest update: December 20, 2025 00:59