Cahokia

Cahokia is a pre-Columbian settlement site near Collinsville in Illinois consisting of about 80 preserved earthen monuments spread across roughly 900 hectares. The largest mound called Monks Mound reaches a height of 30 meters and covers around 6 hectares at its base.

Between the 7th and 14th centuries this location developed into the largest North American settlement north of Mexico before European arrival. The peak came in the 12th century when several thousand people likely lived here and traded with distant regions.

The ancient inhabitants built trade networks, crafted pottery and created gathering places for communal rituals. Today the preserved mound structures and artifacts illustrate how this society organized and used space for religious and social purposes.

A museum operated by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources displays archaeological findings, offers educational programs and organizes guided walks around the site. The expansive grounds are best visited with sturdy footwear and can be explored easily on foot or by bicycle.

Archaeological evidence reveals advanced farming methods including raised fields and irrigation systems that enabled large-scale corn cultivation. A precisely aligned circle of wooden posts called Woodhenge apparently served as a solar calendar for agricultural and ceremonial purposes.

Location: Collinsville

Inception: 1050

Operator: Illinois Department of Natural Resources

Part of: Mississippian culture

Website: http://cahokiamounds.org

GPS coordinates: 38.65389,-90.06444

Latest update: December 14, 2025 20:37