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Fajada Butte
36.0189° N, -107.9098° E
About
Fajada Butte is a butte in Chaco Culture National Historical Park, in northwest New Mexico. Fajada Butte (Banded Butte) rises 135 meters above the canyon floor. Although there is no water source on the butte, there are ruins of small cliff dwellings in the higher regions of the butte. Analysis of fragments of pottery found on Fajada show that these structures were used between the 10th to 13th centuries. The remains of a 95-meter-high, 230-meter-long ramp are evident on the southwestern face of the butte (Ford 1993, p. 478). The magnitude of this building project, without an apparent utilitarian purpose, indicates that Fajada Butte may have had considerable ceremonial importance for the Chacoan people.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Chacoan occupation
10th–13th centuries
Sun Dagger recorded
1977
National Park Service access restrictions
1980s
Erosion-related shift identified
1989
Stabilization of screening slabs
1990
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures
Transportation and Communication Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
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