Leading the research since 2011, Radosław Palonka, a professor at the Jagiellonian University and a specialist in New World archeology, says the findings dramatically alter the understanding of settlement in the area.
The majority of the petroglyphs and rock carvings date from the 12th and 13th centuries, with the oldest originating in the 3rd century during the Basketmaker Period.
These carvings vary in form, featuring complex geometric figures and spirals. The rock art frequently portrays shamans, warriors, bison, deer, and bighorn sheep, with some depicting hunting scenes.
The discoveries were made in the higher, less accessible parts of three canyons: Sand Canyon, Graveyard Canyon, and Rock Creek Canyon, following hints from local residents.
Palonka expressed his team's astonishment at the findings, which included numerous previously unknown petroglyphs about 800 meters above cliff dwellings.
Extensive rock panels, stretching for 4 kilometers around the mesa plateau, feature spirals up to 1 meter in diameter, used by the Pueblo Indians for astronomical observations and marking significant days like solstices and equinoxes.
The discoveries have led to a need to reassess the area, and possibly revise the underestimated 13th-century population size, and the complexity of the people's religious and cultural practices.
The Polish team anticipates further discoveries and awaits a detailed 3D map of the canyons, prepared by University of Houston researchers who conducted both LIDAR and optical surveys by flying 450 meters above the canyons.
This collaboration with the University of Houston, notable for their discovery of 60,000 Mayan pyramids, temples, palaces, houses, roads, canals, and fortifications in Guatemala, is significant.
The Polish archaeologists also work closely with local Native American groups such as the Hopi and Ute tribes, helping them understand the iconography and art of the indigenous people.
Next year, the team plans to record video interviews with tribal elders for a permanent multimedia exhibit at the Canyons of the Ancients Visitor Center and Museum, including the Kraków archaeologists' findings.
Palonka's team, unique in Poland and rare in Europe for conducting research in this region, had to overcome challenges due to non-US citizenship. The project was initiated by Washington State University archaeologist William Lipe, who reviewed Palonka's doctoral thesis.
The Pueblo culture, surviving nearly 3,000 years, evolved from living in semi-subterranean dwellings to constructing multi-story stone houses, resembling residential blocks. They also produced characteristic baskets, mats, intricately decorated jewelry, and ceramics painted with black pigment on a white background.
(rt/gs)
Source: PAP