The Montezuma Castle National Monument, located in Camp Verde about 20 miles southeast of Tuzigoot, is a fascinating ancient cliff dwelling in Arizona. Built between 1100 and 1425 AD by the Sinagua people, this five-story, 20-room building perched 90 feet above the Verde Valley is remarkably well-preserved [1].
Former President Theodore “Teddy” Roosevelt designated it a national monument in 1906, ensuring its protection [2]. Despite restrictions on entering the castle due to preservation concerns, visitors can still marvel at its grandeur from below.
The castle, erroneously named after an Aztec emperor, was actually constructed by the Sinagua, who accessed it via a ladder that could be pulled up for safety [3]. The site also includes the stunning Montezuma Well, a huge natural sinkhole sourced by an underground lake [4].
For a $10 fee, visitors can explore the monument and the well, as well as the nearby Tuzigoot National Monument. Located off I-17, the Montezuma Castle offers a glimpse into an ancient era of remarkable architecture and ingenuity [5].
While the interior may be off-limits, the exterior view of this historic site is a must-see for anyone interested in the rich history of indigenous cultures in Arizona [6].
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