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Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum: A Window to the Salado Past

Discover the ancient Salado culture at Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum in Globe, Arizona – a journey into the Southwest's past.

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Explore the partially reconstructed ruins of Besh-Ba-Gowah, a Salado culture pueblo inhabited from 1225 to 1400 AD, and discover the rich history of the ancient Southwest. The adjacent museum showcases artifacts and offers insights into the lives of the Salado people, providing a fascinating glimpse into a bygone era.

A brief summary to Besh-Ba-Gowah Museum

Local tips

  • Start your visit by watching the introductory film in the museum to gain a better understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Explore the museum's exhibits to see the artifacts excavated from the site, including pottery, stone tools, and woven textiles.
  • Take a walk through the archaeological park and its reconstructed buildings, some with original stonework still visible.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and to see the botanical garden in bloom.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Besh-Ba-Gowah Museum is located at 1324 S Jesse Hayes Rd, Globe, AZ 85501. From downtown Globe, head south on Broad Street, then turn left onto Jesse Hayes Road. The museum will be on your right. Parking is available on-site. There is no fee to park.

  • Public Transport

    The availability of public transportation to Besh-Ba-Gowah is limited. Check local Globe transit options for the most up-to-date information. If using public transport, expect a walk of approximately 1 mile from the nearest stop to the museum.

  • Walking

    From central Globe, walking to Besh-Ba-Gowah is possible but requires a walk of approximately 1 mile. Head south on Broad Street, then turn left onto Jesse Hayes Road. Follow Jesse Hayes Road to the museum entrance. Be aware that Jesse Hayes Road has a slight uphill grade.

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Discover more about Besh-Ba-Gowah Museum

Besh-Ba-Gowah Archaeological Park and Museum, located one mile southwest of Globe, Arizona, offers a captivating journey into the past. The site preserves the ruins of a large pueblo village constructed by the Salado people, who thrived in the region between 1225 and 1400 CE. The name 'Besh-Ba-Gowah,' given by the Apache, translates to 'place of metal,' reflecting the area's early mining history. The partially reconstructed pueblo structures provide a tangible connection to the lives of the Salado people. Visitors can explore the ruins, climb ladders to second-story rooms, and imagine daily life in this ancient community. Interpretive signs offer context about the different rooms, their purposes, and the building techniques employed by the Salado. The adjacent museum displays a remarkable collection of artifacts excavated from the site, including pottery, stone tools, and woven textiles. Exhibits showcase the Salado's advanced culture, trade networks, and artistic skills. A video presentation provides further insights into the lifestyle of the people who once called this place home. Beyond the ruins and museum, the park features a seasonal ethno-botanical garden, showcasing plants used by the Salado people. The park also provides botanical gardens and picnic areas. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the grounds, taking in the beauty of the Arizona landscape and reflecting on the rich history of Besh-Ba-Gowah.

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