The Beef Basin area in Canyonlands National Park is home to some of the most fascinating and remote examples of this ancient art form. The Anasazi people, who lived in the area from around 3000 BC to 1300 AD, created these mysterious images, etched into the rock surfaces of remote canyons. Despite their ancient origins, the exact purpose and meaning of these petroglyphs remain largely unknown, making them all the more intriguing.
Located in one of the most remote and hidden areas of Canyonlands National Park, the Beef Basin petroglyphs offer a rare opportunity to witness the artistic expression of a long-lost civilization. The images etched into the rock surfaces range from simple geometric shapes to complex designs featuring animals, humans, and other mysterious symbols. These petroglyphs are not only a visual treat, but they also provide a glimpse into the beliefs, cultural practices, and spiritual world of the Anasazi people.
Anasazi
The Anasazi, whose name is Navajo for “the Ancient Ones,” lived in stone houses built on or carved out of existing rock structures.
In the beginning, the Anasazi were a nomadic culture. Nomadic means that the group had no permanent home or community. Instead they wandered from place to place in search of animals to hunt, plants to eat, and good weather. People like the Anasazi who rely on food they do not have to grow themselves are known as hunter-gatherers.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Later the Anasazi existence became sedentary. Sedentary describes a people who have settled in an area and built permanent buildings as part of their community. The Anasazis raised maize, which is a kind of corn, and other crops for food.
Video presentation – 500 nations
500 Nations: The Anasazi is a short captivating video hosted by the well-known actor Kevin Costner, who takes viewers on a journey to explore the rich culture and history of the ancient Navajo civilization. This civilization, known as the Anasazi, once flourished in what is now the southwestern United States. The video provides a unique look into the mystery and how their legacy continues to impact the world today. With Kevin Costner’s narration, Anasazi is a must-see for anyone interested in history, anthropology, and indigenous cultures.
