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Moundville Archaeological Park: Echoes of a Mississippian Metropolis

Discover the fascinating history and culture of the Mississippian people at this significant archaeological site with impressive mounds and informative museum.

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Explore the remnants of a significant Mississippian culture settlement at Moundville Archaeological Park. This 320-acre park features 29 earthen platform mounds surrounding a central plaza, a museum showcasing artifacts, and a reconstructed village, offering a glimpse into the lives of its inhabitants from A.D. 1000 to 1450.

A brief summary to Moundville Archaeological Park

Local tips

  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the park, including the mounds, museum, and village replica.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking and climbing the mounds.
  • Visit during the Moundville Native American Festival in October for a vibrant celebration of Native American culture.
  • Bring a picnic to enjoy on the park's grounds or by the Black Warrior River.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Moundville Archaeological Park is located at 634 Mound State Parkway, Moundville, AL 35474. From Tuscaloosa, take US-82 W for approximately 18 miles. Take the exit toward Moundville/US-43 S and exit onto Mound State Parkway. Follow Mound State Parkway for about 3 miles to the park entrance. Parking is available on-site at no additional cost.

  • Taxi/Rideshare

    From Tuscaloosa, a taxi or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) to Moundville Archaeological Park will take approximately 20 minutes, covering a distance of about 17 miles. Expect to pay between $40-$50 for the ride. There is no public transportation available between Tuscaloosa and Moundville.

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Discover more about Moundville Archaeological Park

Moundville Archaeological Park, located on the Black Warrior River near Tuscaloosa, Alabama, preserves the legacy of a major Mississippian culture center. From around A.D. 1000 to 1450, this site was a bustling political, social, and religious hub, second in size and importance only to Cahokia in Illinois. The park spans 320 acres and features 29 platform mounds arranged around a rectangular plaza, reflecting the society's structure. Visitors can explore these impressive earthen mounds, ranging from 3 to 58 feet in height, with Mound B being the tallest. These mounds served as foundations for dwellings and temples, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The Jones Archaeological Museum displays artifacts unearthed at the site, providing insights into the daily life, artistry, and religious practices of the Mississippian people. Life-size figures in ceremonial attire and exhibits of pottery, tools, and ornaments further enrich the visitor experience. A reconstructed village offers a glimpse into the homes and activities of Moundville's residents. Visitors can walk through the dwellings and observe tableaus depicting crafting, food preparation, and burial customs. A nature trail winds through the park's woodlands, offering scenic views of the mounds and the Black Warrior River. The park also hosts events throughout the year, including the Moundville Native American Festival in October, celebrating Native American culture and heritage. Moundville was once a major trade center, with artifacts from distant regions found at the site. Skilled craftspeople created intricate art objects, reflecting their religious beliefs and social structure. Although the reasons for its decline are not fully understood, Moundville remains a significant site for understanding the Mississippian culture and the history of Native Americans in the Southeast.

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