Who lived on Monks Mound?
Trappist Monks
The largest mound at the Cahokia site, the largest man-made earthen mound in the North American continent, is Monks Mound (Mound 38). It received its name from the group of Trappist Monks who lived on one of the nearby mounds.
Why is Cahokia Mounds important?
Today, the Cahokia Mounds are considered to be the largest and most complex archaeological site north of the great pre-Columbian cities in Mexico. Cahokia Mounds is a National Historic Landmark and a designated site for state protection. It is also one of the 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites within the United States.
When was Monks Mound made?
immense earthworks, including the pyramidal Monks Mound (built between 900 and 1200), the largest prehistoric earthen structure in the Western Hemisphere, which rises to 100 feet (30 metres), covers more than 14 acres (6 hectares), and contains more than 25 million cubic feet (700,000 cubic metres) of earth.
How big is Monks Mound?
Dominating the community was Monks Mound, the largest prehistoric earthen structure in the New World. Constructed in fourteen stages, it covers six hectares and rises in four terraces to a height of 30 meters.
What was unique about Monks Mound?
Unlike Egyptian pyramids which were built of stone, the platform mound was constructed almost entirely of layers of basket-transported soil and clay. Because of this construction and its flattened top, over the years, it has retained rainwater within the structure.
What was the purpose of some of the mounds built by the Mound Builders?
The various cultures collectively termed Mound Builders were inhabitants of North America who, during a 5,000-year period, constructed various styles of earthen mounds for religious, ceremonial, burial, and elite residential purposes.
Is Cahokia worth visiting?
This is an amazing historical site that remains under publicized. Truthfully I was expecting to see a few mounds, that while significant leave the visitor disappointed. Instead the museum at these grounds does an excellent job conveying the scope and of the site and displaying artifacts.
What is inside the Monks Mound?
How many steps at Monks Mound?
Harry Jackson Jr. Two walkers scale Monks Mound at Cahokia Mounds Historic Site. Several walkers and runners use the promenade for exercise. The mound is 100 feet tall, and at last count, 154 steps.