Montezuma's Castle

In early March, Carolyn and I trekked to Camp Verde 35 miles east of Prescott to see Montezuma's Castle. This cliff dwelling was mistakenly named for the Aztec leader. It was thought at one time that Aztec refugees occupied the area and named the community after their leader. Although it is now known not to be true, the name has stuck.

Little is known about prehistoric Indian farmers who came to northern Arizona, settled along Beaver Creek and built this abode in a south facing cliff. It was a good choice offering protection, access to water, solar heating, and a fantastic view as it did.

The structure was built around 1200 A.D. and was occupied for more than 300 years. It housed up to 35 people at any given time. It was was mysteriously abandoned after 1450.