Archaeologists from Jagiellonian University in Kraków have made a groundbreaking discovery of ancient astronomical carvings and paintings associated with the Pueblo culture. This significant find was made at the Castle Rock Pueblo settlement complex, which is situated on the Mesa Verde plateau along the border of Colorado and Utah in the United States.
The region has been known for its rich history of rock art and petroglyphs, with previous studies identifying Pueblo petroglyphs dating back to the 12th and 13th centuries AD. Additionally, rock panels from the 15th to 17th centuries AD have been discovered, depicting hunting scenes attributed to the Ute tribe, another indigenous group that has long inhabited the area. These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence about the diverse cultural and artistic expressions of early Native American civilizations.
The Puebloans, also referred to as the Pueblos, were one of the earliest and most sophisticated Native American societies, emerging around AD 100. Their civilization thrived across a vast region that encompassed present-day Utah, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado. Renowned for their architectural prowess, the Pueblo people constructed elaborate multistory stone houses, many of which were built into the sides of cliffs, offering both protection and a strategic vantage point. Their society also left behind a legacy of artistic achievements, including rock art, intricately designed jewelry, and pottery adorned with meticulously painted motifs.
This latest discovery came after members of the local community provided reports suggesting the existence of additional archaeological features in remote areas of the Castle Rock Pueblo settlement complex. Archaeologists then undertook an extensive exploration of the hard-to-reach regions of Sand Canyon, Graveyard Canyon, and Rock Creek Canyon. Their efforts led them to remarkable findings located at an elevation of 800 meters above the cliff settlements. Here, researchers identified petroglyphs etched onto rock panels extending over four kilometers along the large plateau.
Among the most striking elements of these carvings are large spirals, some reaching up to one meter in diameter. According to researchers, these spirals were not merely decorative but served an essential role in astronomical observations. The Pueblo people likely used these symbols to track celestial events, enabling them to determine the timing of crucial seasonal changes such as the summer and winter solstices, as well as the spring and autumn equinoxes. This discovery underscores the Puebloans’ advanced understanding of astronomy and their ability to integrate celestial knowledge into their daily lives and spiritual practices.
In addition to the petroglyphs, archaeologists uncovered painted depictions featuring images of warriors and shamans. These painted figures are believed to date back to the 3rd century AD, during what is known as the Basketmaker Era. This period marked an important phase in the development of Pueblo culture, characterized by the transition from a primarily hunter-gatherer society to a more settled, agricultural-based way of life. The presence of warrior and shaman imagery suggests the significance of spiritual and protective figures within Pueblo society, reflecting their beliefs in the connection between the natural and supernatural worlds.
Professor Radosław Palonka from Jagiellonian University, who led the research, emphasized the importance of these discoveries in reshaping scholars’ understanding of the region. He stated, “These discoveries forced us to adjust our knowledge about this area. Definitely, we have underestimated the number of inhabitants who lived here in the 13th century and the complexity of their religious practices, which must have also taken place next to these outdoor panels.”
His statement highlights a key revelation from this research—the region may have been home to a much larger population than previously thought. Additionally, the complexity of the religious and ceremonial activities conducted in the area suggests a high degree of social and spiritual organization among the Pueblo people. The findings further reinforce the notion that these ancient civilizations had an intricate relationship with their environment, utilizing natural rock formations not only as a means of shelter but also as sacred spaces for ritualistic practices.
The discovery of these astronomical carvings and painted figures adds another layer of depth to the existing knowledge of the Pueblo culture. The ability to record and predict celestial movements demonstrates an impressive level of sophistication in their scientific and spiritual understanding. This knowledge was likely crucial for agricultural planning, as the timing of planting and harvesting would have been closely tied to seasonal changes.
Furthermore, the painted depictions of warriors and shamans provide valuable insights into the social and religious structure of the Pueblo civilization. Warriors may have played a significant role in protecting their communities, while shamans were likely viewed as intermediaries between the human world and the spirit realm. The combination of these elements suggests that the Puebloans held a profound respect for both their physical and metaphysical surroundings.
This research also raises intriguing questions about the broader influence of the Pueblo culture on other indigenous groups in the region. The use of rock art as a means of recording astronomical and religious knowledge suggests possible interactions and exchanges with neighboring cultures. It is plausible that the Pueblo people shared their knowledge with other groups, contributing to a wider network of indigenous astronomical traditions.
Additionally, the discovery underscores the importance of preserving and protecting these cultural heritage sites. As natural erosion, climate change, and human activities continue to pose threats to such archaeological treasures, efforts must be made to ensure that these remnants of ancient civilizations remain intact for future generations to study and appreciate. The work of archaeologists in uncovering, documenting, and interpreting these sites plays a crucial role in deepening the understanding of humanity’s past.
The Castle Rock Pueblo settlement complex is already recognized as a significant archaeological site, and this latest discovery only enhances its historical importance. The presence of petroglyphs and paintings in such remote locations suggests that many more undiscovered artifacts may still exist within the surrounding landscape. Continued exploration and research in the region could yield further groundbreaking findings, shedding even more light on the lives, beliefs, and scientific achievements of the Pueblo people.
This discovery serves as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of the Pueblo civilization. Despite the challenges posed by their rugged environment, they developed a society that thrived for centuries, leaving behind an enduring legacy that continues to captivate scholars and history enthusiasts alike. By studying their art, architecture, and scientific knowledge, modern researchers gain a deeper appreciation for the sophistication of this ancient culture and its lasting impact on the history of Native American civilizations.
As archaeologists continue their investigations, the hope remains that future discoveries will provide even greater insights into the lives of the Pueblo people. Each new piece of evidence contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of their civilization, ensuring that their story is preserved and shared with the world. The work being done at Castle Rock Pueblo highlights the invaluable role of archaeology in unraveling the mysteries of the past and bringing history to life for generations to come.
