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Tuzigoot National Monument

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The history...

Tuzigoot National Monument is an ancient pueblo, or village, built by the Sinagua people over 900 years ago. It is located in central Arizona, near the Verde River, and sits on a hill that offers beautiful views of the surrounding valley. The name "Tuzigoot" comes from an Apache word that means "crooked water," referring to the nearby river.

The Sinagua people built this pueblo around 1000 AD and lived there until about 1400 AD. The village was made from local stone and mud, and it had more than 100 rooms. The Sinagua were skilled farmers, growing crops like corn, beans, and squash. They also traded with other groups, exchanging goods like pottery, cotton, and turquoise. The site was abandoned around 1400 AD, possibly due to changes in the environment or the arrival of other groups.

Tuzigoot was rediscovered in the 1930s by archaeologists who uncovered the remains of the pueblo. The site was carefully restored, and in 1939, Tuzigoot became a national monument to protect and preserve the history of the Sinagua people.

Today, visitors can explore the remains of the pueblo, learn about the Sinagua culture at the visitor center, and enjoy stunning views of the Verde Valley. It’s a fascinating place to connect with the history of the people who lived in the Southwest long ago.

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