Manitou Cliff Dwellings: A Step Back in Time

The Manitou Cliff Dwellings offer a rare opportunity to step back in time and explore the architectural remnants of the Ancestral Puebloans. These fascinating cliff dwellings, originally located in McElmo Canyon in southwestern Colorado, were carefully relocated to Manitou Springs in the early 20th century to protect them from looting and destruction. The preserve consists of stones gathered from a collection of mesa top dwellings. Visitors can wander through the dwellings, experiencing the architecture of the Ancient Puebloan people firsthand. The dwellings are built into a natural red sandstone overhang, providing a dramatic backdrop for exploration. Below the cliff dwellings, a three-story Pueblo-style building houses the Anasazi Museum and a gift shop. The museum features exhibits and artifacts that offer insights into the lives and culture of the Ancestral Puebloans. The gift shop offers Native American-made pottery, jewelry, and artifacts, as well as Colorado and US-made gifts. The Manitou Cliff Dwellings provide a unique and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It's a chance to connect with the past and learn about the rich history of the American Southwest.