Mexico

Cueva de la Ranchería

Paquimé cliff-dwelling cave complex in Chihuahua, Mexico

Location

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Historical Context

About

Cueva de la Ranchería is an archaeological site located south of Ciudad Madera, in the Sirupa Canyon region, northwest of the Mexican state of Chihuahua. Ciudad Madera has basic tourism infrastructure, however it may be difficult to get transportation to visit the site, since it covers a large area at the base of the Sirupa Canyon. It is a relatively long drive on a dirt road. It is suggested planning a trip for a minimum of nine to ten hours, with little time to explore. It is also possible to visit the San Andrés Sirupa mission, destroyed by Tarahumaras in 1690. The landscape is particularly beautiful and makes it the trip worthwhile from the Sirupa village. Nearby are thermal hot water springs. It is advisable to visit the site with an experienced guide.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

First settlements in the region

c. 1000 BCE

Construction of Cuarenta Casas

1060–1205 CE

Paquimé apogee

1261–1300 CE

Paquimé decline

c. 1450 CE

San Andrés Sirupa mission destroyed

1690

Lumholtz exploration

1898

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Storage Structures

Granaries
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Burial and Funerary Structures

Tombs
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Artistic and Decorative Features

Cave PaintingsPetroglyphs
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Domestic and Habitation Structures

CavesHouses
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Environmental and Natural Features

Rock SheltersModified Caves
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Food Production and Processing Features

Hearths
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

Mexico

Coordinates

28.99° N, -108.21° E