Culture & History
Discover the rich culture and historical depth of the Four Corners region, a unique crossroads where the states of New Mexico, Colorado, Utah, and Arizona converge. The mesas and canyons of the Four Corners were home to ancient peoples whose legacies continue to resonate and live today, leaving an indelible mark on the American Southwest. Discover the dynamic history of its modern indigenous peoples, the Ute, Paiute, Diné (Navajo), Hopi, Zuni and Pueblo.
The Ancestral Puebloan culture, formerly known as Anasazi, reached across the entire Southwest for centuries, and is renowned for its architectural marvels, including the cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde and the great houses of Chaco Canyon. From the awe-inspiring Aztec Ruins to the mysterious rock art and pueblitas, the heart and soul of the region are truly its Native cultures.
Explore the rich tapestry of Native American history and culture, from the ancestral stories etched in stone to the vibrant traditions that continue to flourish today. Discover the culinary delights of native food traditions, a testament to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and the ingenuity of its people.
The region’s mining history adds another layer, with tales of fortune, struggle, and resilience that shape the character of these lands. Here, history is a living, breathing presence that continues to influence and inspire. Journey with us along the Trail of the Ancients National Scenic Byway, a 480-mile route through Colorado and Utah that links an impressive array of archaeological sites, including Aztec Ruins.
Immerse yourself in the stories, traditions, and legacies that shape the Four Corners. Learn the fascinating history of the Hole-in-the-Rock Expedition. We invite you to explore, learn, and engage with the rich history and culture of the Four Corners. Explore the Aztec Museum & Pioneer Village.
Walk in the footprints of the Old Spanish Trail and make new discoveries and gain a deeper understanding of this remarkable region. Open up a world of discovery, where every turn on the road brings a new story, a new perspective on the American experience.
Navajo Code Talkers: Heroes of World War II
Discover the untold story of Navajo Code Talkers, unsung heroes of WWII. Learn how their unbreakable code played a crucial role in the Pacific…
From Four Corners to Ancient Ruins: Cortez Colorado Has it All
Explore Cortez, Colorado: A hub for history, culture, and outdoor adventure in the heart of the Four Corners region, offering breathtaking landscapes and ancient…
At the Edge of the Cedars, Our Ancestors Keep Watch
Explore the ancient legacy of the Ancestral Puebloans at Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum, the largest repository of artifacts in southeastern Utah.…
Canyons of the Ancients — For want of a time machine
Discover the Grand Circle’s 10 National Parks: an epic journey through the Southwest’s stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Explore now!
Walk in the Footprints of the Old Spanish Trail
Journey along the Old Spanish Trail, reliving historic trade routes from New Mexico to California, and experience the landscapes that shaped early America.
Canyon de Chelly — Home to people for 5,000 years
Canyon de Chelly near Chinle, Arizona, has a long and rich history as the home of Native Americans. Visitors today can peer into the…
Shiprock in the Four Corners defines the Land of Enchantment
One of the most iconic vistas in northwest New Mexico is Ship Rock, or Tsé Bit’a’í. It is also sacred to the Navajo. We…
The Controversial Tradition of Frybread
Explore the complex history of frybread, a food born from necessity with roots in Native American resilience, now a controversial staple.