I visited this location in the mid-nineties when the initial excavations were taking place. I was with a school group and we were able to experience some very interesting things.
I recently drove back out to experience this location again. Sadly the weather did not permit a tour of the site but I spent a good part of a day touring the museum and speaking with the curators.
There is some small controversy involving the use of the term catacombs. There are burial chambers at the site but they aren't technically catacombs.
By reliving my experiences from the nineties, I was able to answer some questions that the curators had and we were able to come to some more concrete conclusions about some of the more mysterious aspects of this amazing place.
Even if you aren't interested in Native American ancient history, there is a ton of information about the early days of Springerville to peruse.
I definitely recommend paying this museum a visit and maybe pick up a hat...
Read moreDriving through Springerville when we happened to see a sign for the Casa Malpais Archaeological Museum. Quick as wink we pulled over and spent the next hour inside. They have quite a large selection of interesting items. From things donated by local people to historical and archeological items that encompass pretty much everything from the surrounding areas. So very glad we took the time to visit. We were the only ones there and that is a shame as the museum is probably vastly underrated (in my opinion). Totally worth the time we spent there. But then again, I do...
Read moreMy husband and two good friends took this tour years ago while staying nearby for a wedding, and to this day, I have never been on a cooler, more informative tour! I cannot recommend it enough! We had so much fun and learned a ton. The tour guide (sorry I can't remember his name) was so passionate and engaging. It was literally just the four of us and this tour guide, and we spent well over 2 hours asking questions, hiking around, and just generally having a great time. If you are in the area, go to this museum, and do the guided tour. You will...
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