[Aztlan] New research at Chimney Rock

[michael ruggeri]

Listeros,

For the first time in more than 30 years, archaeologists are  
excavating at Chimney Rock ruins. Chimney Rock was built over a  
thousand years ago. Steven Lekson is the chief archaeologist at the  
site. Chimney Rock construction may be tied to the major lunar  
standstill marking the end of the moon's northern migration cycle.  
Every 18.6 years, the moon will rise within a window framed by the  
giant rock spires of Chimney Rock. The most recent standstill took  
place from 2004-2008. The next time this happens at Chimney Rock will  
not be till 2022.

Earlier research there indicated that periods of construction  
corresponded with lunar standstills and that the major construction  
was at the time of a lunar standstill in 1076. Archaeologists will now  
carbon date burned beams at the site to confirm this.

Another major question about Chimney Rock was whether it was part of  
the Chacoan world. It may be that corn was grown at Chimney Rock for  
transport to Chaco. It is possible to signal Chaco from Chimney
Rock atop Huerfano Peak in New Mexico. Archaeologists are also working  
to stabilize the Great House walls.

The Durango Herald has the story here with enlargable photos;
http://durangoherald.com/sections/Features/Outdoors/2009/07/10/Chimney_Rock_Chaco_or_not/

A tiny URL;
http://tinyurl.com/mpt8sy

Mike Ruggeri

Mike Ruggeri's The Casas Grandes World and the Turquoise Road
http://tinyurl.com/62wp8z

Mike Ruggeri's The Ancient Southwest
http://tinyurl.com/2j8whx