Native American culture in Sedona

There is a lot of Native American influence in the Sedona area. Their culture is rich and dates back centuries. All you have to do is walk the streets of beautiful Sedona and you will see and feel the rich tribal ethnicity dating back to the Native Americans.

Native American tribes have been in the area for thousands of years. It wasn’t until the latter part of the 19th century that Europeans finally came to the Sedona area to stay. So when you visit Sedona, you’ll find a deep Native American influence still alive and well. The influence is strong, from the handicrafts that are sold in the town to the beautiful cave paintings that have been discovered in the area.

Archaeologists have been able to uncover some interesting facts about the ancient inhabitants of this region. Most archaeologists believe that the nomadic peoples who lived in the Sedona area so many thousands of years ago probably hunted the big game animals of the Ice Age.

Then, about 7,000 years ago, the culture of the Native Americans in the region began to change. They began to spend more time gathering plants and hunting animals that were considered small game animals. Stone tools, as well as projectile points, from this period have been discovered near Dry Creek.

It was not until AD 700 that the native culture in the area was substantially altered. At this time civilization turned more to agriculture and the making of beautiful pottery. The group in the area then was known as the Hakataya, and another group, the Hohokam, joined them. Later another tribe of people known as the Sinagua arrived in the region; all of these people merged to become southern Sinagua. In the unique cliff dwellings that can still be seen, and in some of the cave paintings that can be found, you can find evidence of their life and culture. In fact, one place where you can see their interesting cliff dwellings from so many years ago is the Palatki cliff dwelling.

There is still a strong Native American presence in Sedona today. Some of the modern tribes found in the area include the Tonto Apaches as well as the Yavapai, and you will find that the Hopi and Navajo Indians also have a strong influence in the region. You will find evidence of their culture in the artwork, the ceremonies and the deep respect for this beautiful land. Many places in the Sedona area are considered sacred, so visitors should be careful to respect this.

Visitors to Sedona can see numerous ancient native artifacts. There’s the cliff dwelling known as Honanki, as well as Woo Canyon, where native art from so many years ago can be seen. You’ll also find exhibits of Native American dance, art, and music, and visitors can purchase beautiful Native American jewelry and pottery.