Explore Mississippian Culture at Moundville Archaeological Park
Josh and I have always been interested in the history and the people of the places we visit. When we lived in Florida, it was a common occurrence for us to choose a historic landmark, museum or scenic byway for recreation. Now that we are in Alabama, we have all of that to choose from and more! The annual native american festival at Moundville Archaeological Park really spoke to us in regards to learning about Alabama’s past. What better way to learn about the people and history than starting at the very beginning?
As we found out, Moundville Archaeological Park, located just outside of Tuscaloosa, is a must-see destination for anyone interested in Native American history and culture. The park is home to a large complex of ancient earthworks, built by the Mississippian culture over 1,000 years ago. As you explore the park, you'll have the opportunity to learn about the daily lives of the people who once lived here, as well as the spiritual beliefs and political structures that shaped their society. The park features a museum with exhibits on the history of the site and many archaeological artifacts.
The Native American festival is open to visitors of all ages and offers an interactive learning experience with several native tribes, food vendors, and activities. There were several school groups on field trips when we visited. We started the day off by getting Indian Tacos and Frybread from the most authentic food vendor we could find. The food was delicious, and after finishing it off we explored the museum and saw what the merchants and artisans had to offer. There was beautiful pottery, jewelry, instruments and clothing all made by native artists.
One of the highlights of a visit to Moundville Archaeological Park is the opportunity to see the many mounds that dot the landscape. These mounds, some of which are over 60 feet tall, were used for a variety of purposes, including ceremonial and burial sites. As you walk through the park, you'll be able to see these mounds up close and imagine the people who once used them in their daily lives. Mound V was one of the most important sites, as it housed the principal chief and his family. It was connected to another large mound that served as an important trading site for the society. When we climbed the stairs to the top of this mound and looked across the ancient city, we couldn’t help but imagine what it felt like to live here. It was so impressive! This was the moment that we all really were able to appreciate the scope and legacy left by this mysterious ancient civilization.
