Facts and Data
Webpages:
Official Unesco Page
World Heritage in the United States
Illinois Historic Preservation Agency
Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Basis Data:
Unesco World heritage since: 1982
Size of heritage: 591 ha
Coordinates:
Longitude: -89,939°
Latitude: 38,659°
Summary
Cahokia Mounds, some 13 km north-east of St Louis, Missouri, is the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. It was occupied primarily during the Mississippian period (800–1400), when it covered nearly 1,600 ha and included some 120 mounds. It is a striking example of a complex chiefdom society, with many satellite mound centres and numerous outlying hamlets and villages. This agricultural society may have had a population of 10–20,000 at its peak between 1050 and 1150. Primary features at the site include Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthwork in the Americas, covering over 5 ha and standing 30 m high.
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Introduction
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, located in St. Louis, Illinois, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that preserves the remains of the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico. This ancient city, known as Cahokia, was once a thriving urban center and a significant cultural and political hub in the Mississippian civilization. Today, the site offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and architectural achievements of the Native American people who inhabited the region over a thousand years ago.
History
The Cahokia Mounds were constructed between the years 900 and 1250 CE, reaching their peak population around 1050 CE. The city covered an area of approximately six square miles and was home to an estimated 10,000 to 20,000 people. The site consists of over 80 mounds, including the impressive Monk's Mound, which stands at 100 feet tall and covers over 14 acres.
The people of Cahokia were skilled farmers, growing crops such as maize, beans, and squash. They also engaged in trade networks that extended across the continent, exchanging goods such as copper, shells, and pottery. The city's central plaza, known as the Grand Plaza, served as a gathering place for religious ceremonies, political meetings, and community events.
Current State
Today, the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a well-preserved archaeological site that offers visitors a chance to explore the remnants of this ancient civilization. The site features a visitor center with exhibits that provide insights into the daily life, culture, and achievements of the Cahokia people. Visitors can also watch a short film that delves into the history of the site.
One of the highlights of the site is the reconstructed Woodhenge, a circular arrangement of wooden posts that served as a solar calendar. This structure allows visitors to experience the astronomical knowledge and architectural prowess of the Cahokia people.
Guided tours are available, led by knowledgeable interpreters who provide in-depth information about the mounds, the people who built them, and the significance of the site. Visitors can climb to the top of Monk's Mound, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area and a chance to appreciate the scale of this ancient city.
The site also hosts various events and festivals throughout the year, including the annual Cahokia Mounds Native American Market, where visitors can purchase traditional crafts, artwork, and jewelry made by Native American artisans.
Preservation Efforts
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is protected and managed by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. The agency works diligently to preserve and maintain the site's integrity, ensuring that future generations can continue to learn from and appreciate this significant cultural heritage.
Efforts are also underway to expand the site's boundaries and protect additional archaeological resources. The preservation of Cahokia Mounds serves as a testament to the importance of safeguarding our shared human history and honoring the achievements of ancient civilizations.
Conclusion
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site stands as a remarkable testament to the ingenuity and cultural achievements of the Native American people who once inhabited the region. Through its well-preserved mounds, artifacts, and interpretive programs, the site offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of the rich history of the Mississippian civilization. As a UNESCO World Heritage site, Cahokia Mounds continues to inspire awe and appreciation for the ancient cultures that shaped the landscape of North America.