Tonque Pueblo, Archaeological site in Sandoval County, US.
Tonque Pueblo is an archaeological site in Sandoval County covering 36 acres with between 1500 and 2000 rooms arranged in an E-shape with four parallel arms extending east to west. The layout demonstrates careful planning typical of large pueblos, with spaces designed for both residential and craft activities.
The settlement emerged in the early 1300s and remained occupied until the middle 1500s, with evidence pointing to abandonment during a severe drought. This environmental crisis marked the end of occupation at this once thriving pueblo.
The name comes from the Tewa word 'tung', meaning basket or tray, reflecting the ancestral designation as the Pueblo of Basket Makers. Pottery fragments scattered across the site tell the story of the ceramic tradition that once thrived here.
The site is not freely accessible and remains under San Felipe Pueblo's protection, so visits require prior authorization and organized tours. Interested visitors should contact local authorities or San Felipe Pueblo directly to understand access conditions.
This pueblo was a major pottery production center, supplying roughly one-third of all glazed ceramics used across middle Rio Grande valley pueblos. Such specialized craft expertise made it an important trade hub for neighboring communities.
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