Arizona is a magic state of colors, terrains varied from barren to lush, stark to surprising. While the landscapes are moon like and mysterious, so is the history of the Anasazi Indians. If you visit the Sedona area, the ruins cannot be missed.
While many would opt for Montezuma’s Castle (truly stunning but overly popular cliff dwelling nearby) this ruin of what is left of the region’s major trade center, Tuzigoot, is amazing. It is off the beaten track, not easy to find, and looks tiny when you arrive. But as you walk into the tiny museum, peruse the barest of the bones of a town that once held nearly 6,000 people, a much larger, more impressive vision settles in.
As with so many things left worn by time, the ruins speak of empire; empire speaks to fertility, vitality and creativity…and this long-lost tribe brilliantly ruled the area from a high-on roost where they could see enemies and trading partners from far away.
Somehow, it feels still alive.
The museum is small — but you must speak to the park rangers there. They are deeply knowledgeable and can provide the context of not just this tribe but the rejuvenation of the historic site. The rooms are complex and interwoven…a true community. The materials are worn by rain and time, but are being re-built with as close to the original material as possible. As you walk, if you let yourself go, you can pause and view the river and the valley…see the gashes and chasms of the desert far away, feel the tug of history. There is almost a magical mundanity about it.
If you are visiting Jerome, Tuzigott is nearby and easy to find. The nearby town of Cottonwood also has a main street that is very close to the original cowboy town, with a new brush coat of modern food and fun.
Outspoken Traveler 