Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
Location: Illinois, United States
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Collinsville (Greater St.Louis), Illinois. It is the site of an ancient Native American city, Cahokia, which thrived between the 9th and 14th centuries. The site is renowned for its massive earthen mounds, plazas, and other archaeological remains, providing insights into the pre-Columbian Mississippian culture.
Prominent Features: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site boasts several prominent features, including:
History: Cahokia was once the largest pre-Columbian settlement in North America, with a population estimated at 10,000 to 20,000 inhabitants during its peak. The city served as a regional center for trade, governance, and religious activities. The decline of Cahokia and its abandonment around the 14th century remain a subject of scholarly debate.
Family-Friendly Activities: Nearby attractions in the area include the St. Louis Science Center, the St. Louis Zoo, or the City Museum. These attractions offer interactive exhibits, educational programs, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Apparently also the Worlds Largest Catsup Bottle.
Fun Fact: The largest mound at Cahokia, Monks Mound, is larger in volume than the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is an impressive feat of engineering and stands as a testament to the complexity and organizational skills of the ancient Cahokia civilization.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to access the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. However, some special programs and events may have separate fees.
How to Reach it: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is located approximately 8 miles northeast of St. Louis, Missouri. The site is easily accessible by car via Interstate 55/70. Visitors can take exit 6 for Illinois Route 203 and follow the signs to the site's entrance.
Public transport options to reach Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site are available from nearby cities, including St. Louis, Missouri. Here are some public transport options:
Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, visitors can find various lodging options in nearby Collinsville or the greater St. Louis area. These include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds.
Next Stop: Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point
Year of Inscription: 1982
Criteria: (iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Collinsville (Greater St.Louis), Illinois. It is the site of an ancient Native American city, Cahokia, which thrived between the 9th and 14th centuries. The site is renowned for its massive earthen mounds, plazas, and other archaeological remains, providing insights into the pre-Columbian Mississippian culture.
Prominent Features: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site boasts several prominent features, including:
- Monks Mound: The largest and most recognizable mound at Cahokia, Monks Mound stands over 100 feet tall and covers approximately 14 acres. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Woodhenge: This circular arrangement of posts served as an astronomical observatory for the ancient Cahokia residents. It aligns with the solstices and equinoxes, demonstrating the sophisticated knowledge of the people who lived there.
- Interpretive Center: The site features an Interpretive Center where visitors can learn about the history, culture, and significance of Cahokia through exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.
- Plaza and Other Mounds: Cahokia includes several plazas surrounded by smaller mounds, offering visitors a glimpse into the city's layout and ceremonial spaces.
History: Cahokia was once the largest pre-Columbian settlement in North America, with a population estimated at 10,000 to 20,000 inhabitants during its peak. The city served as a regional center for trade, governance, and religious activities. The decline of Cahokia and its abandonment around the 14th century remain a subject of scholarly debate.
Family-Friendly Activities: Nearby attractions in the area include the St. Louis Science Center, the St. Louis Zoo, or the City Museum. These attractions offer interactive exhibits, educational programs, and entertainment suitable for all ages. Apparently also the Worlds Largest Catsup Bottle.
Fun Fact: The largest mound at Cahokia, Monks Mound, is larger in volume than the Great Pyramid of Giza. It is an impressive feat of engineering and stands as a testament to the complexity and organizational skills of the ancient Cahokia civilization.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to access the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. However, some special programs and events may have separate fees.
How to Reach it: Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is located approximately 8 miles northeast of St. Louis, Missouri. The site is easily accessible by car via Interstate 55/70. Visitors can take exit 6 for Illinois Route 203 and follow the signs to the site's entrance.
Public transport options to reach Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site are available from nearby cities, including St. Louis, Missouri. Here are some public transport options:
- MetroLink: The MetroLink light rail system connects St. Louis with the Metro East region, including stops near Cahokia Mounds. Visitors can take the Red Line to the "5th & Missouri" station in East St. Louis, and then transfer to a bus for the final leg of the journey.
- MetroBus: MetroBus routes serve the St. Louis metropolitan area, including stops near Cahokia Mounds. Visitors can take MetroBus routes such as the #16, #17, or #19 to reach the site.
Where to Stay: While there are no accommodations within the Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, visitors can find various lodging options in nearby Collinsville or the greater St. Louis area. These include hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and campgrounds.
Next Stop: Monumental Earthworks of Poverty Point