Anasazi Homes and Kivas


The Anasazi's homes were cliff dwellings.
Today, remains of their settlements show that this ancient civilization lived in multiple storied homes.

Although the homes had window openings, there were no doors.
The Anasazi had to enter most of the structures through ladders poised on the roofs of the cliff homes. It is thought that the homes were constructed in this way to safeguard against enemies or predatorial animals entering their homes.

~ Anasazi Kivas ~




An important structure to the Anasazi people was the kiva.
A kiva was constructed in a circular shape.
It was used for religious ceremonies.
The Anasazis entered the kiva through a hole in the center
of the roof. Sometimes, however, there were hidden underground passages to another room. A firepit, airshaft, and benches were common features of a kiva.

     




  Chetro Ketl Great Kiva

[Requires Quicktime]

To move around the kiva, click on the image and then drag the mouse in the directions you wish to move. To zoom in, use the shift key. To zoom out, press the control key.


  


Visit the following sites to learn more about Anasazi homes and other architecture...
 
  • Visit a photo gallery from Canyons of the Ancients
    National Monument in Southwestern Colorado
   
Archaeological Sites & Scenery
Archaeological Sites & Scenery
 
  • Tour the Chaco Anasazi of the American Southwest
Pueblo Bonito Today
(panoramic views)
Pueblo Bonito Now and Then
(artist's interpretation)