Paquime

Paquime was a vibrant indigenous community built by the Mogollon culture between 700 and 1350 AD. Paquime is thought to have been a commercial center that traded between the Pueblo civilizations to the north, and the more advanced civilizations (such as the Toltec) of Central Mexico.

Paquime was a growing community up until its demise in 1350 AD. The reasons for its collapse are uncertain, but may have been due to drought or possibly to war (possibly with the Tarascans), though disease might have played a role as well. Archaeologists have found signs of a massive fire happening in 1350.

Beneath the floors of some of the residential structures, archaeologists found skeletons, leading them to believe that the culture buried its dead within the home. The residential areas of the site are quite extensive with buildings ranging from 1-story to 5-story apartment buildings. Some of the 1-story structures are built clustered around a shared courtyard area where metates and other food preparation tools were found.

One of the most unexpected structures at the site is an aviary. Paquime is thought to have trafficked in tropical birds, buying them from the Toltec traders of central Mexico and selling them to the southwest indigenous groups to the north. Remains of cages can be seen along the wall and site markers show where more than 100 skeletons of parrots and macaws (birds not native to Chihuahua) were found.

The site is dusty and dry with very sparse vegetation (it's a desert environment). Most of the landscape is completely barren.

Despite the harsh conditions, a number of species thrive in the inhospitable climate. Cactus are common, with agave, organ pipe, and prickly pear (known as nopal in Mexico). Historians believe the people of Paquime lived by farming crops that could subsist with little water and by hunting mule deer and other animals. You aren't likely to spot any large predators, but armadillos, prairie dogs, and small rodents are common. More than 100 bird species live in the Paquime area, including carrion birds like vultures, as well as roadrunners, which find lizards plentiful. Archaeologists believe that Paquime residents kept macaws, though they are not native to the area. Snakes are notoriously capable of thriving in hot, dry climates and more than 35 species are known to live around Paquime, including 6 types of rattlesnake. Most are nocturnal though and will hide during the day, but it's always wise to be careful of where you walk and don't lift rocks or put your hand in holes.

Paquime is in the Chihuahuan desert. Expect extremely hot and dry conditions in the summer (temperatures here have reached 48° C). Winter nights can become bitterly cold with sub-freezing temperatures. Check conditions before venturing out, dress for the weather, and bring plenty of water.