Researchers Discover a Network of Ancient Ceremonial Roads, Reveal Spiritual Practices of Our Ancestors

A team of researchers recently analyzed a network of ancient ceremonial roads in New Mexico, which gave them more insights into the past beliefs of Indigenous communities. The discovery happened at the Gasco archaeological site just south of Chaco Canyon, stated Ancient Origins. These roads were constructed by the Pueblo people who lived in the area around a millennium ago. Findings regarding the ceremonial roads have been published in Antiquity Journal. 

The results of the examinations indicated that the Pueblo group had an attachment to astronomical phenomena. This link was reflected in their construction of sacred sites, like these roads. The Chacoan roads before the recent investigation did not undergo any major analysis barring the mapping initiative that took place in the 1980s. There was limited information about the structure, based on which most experts assumed that these pathways' primary function was to connect several Pueblo settlements. The study though challenges this assertion.

The roadways that were examined in the study covered 38,000 square miles (100,000 square kilometers) of a region that came to be known as the "Chaco World." The present examination found that these roads were longer in size than previously believed, and were built in such a way that they seemingly connected the natural springs with the sunrise that takes place over the mountain on the 21st of December. Furthermore, researchers also observed that these roads did not connect any settlements, hence their primary function was determined to be ceremonial.

For the study, researchers applied the LiDar technology. Analysis unveiled parallel pathways and also spotted horse-shoe-like structures that had never been recorded. Researchers also stated that the parallel roads stretched for around six kilometers each. Experts stated that many of the roads in the system appeared to have an intentional alignment with solar and lunar events. This implied a deeper knowledge of these astronomical events within the community.

The results also showcased the prominent position Mount Taylor occupied for the group. Onsite observation confirmed that the pathways in the network were aligned with such precision, that they appeared to be leading to the winter solstice in Mount Taylor that happened once a year in the region. Mount Taylor was treated as a centerpiece by the group in their ceremonial plans, as per researchers.

The winter solstice is known to be the longest night of the year, as per experts. Over the centuries the event has come to symbolize the opposites between day and night and cold and heat. All these meanings made experts speculate that the 'parallel' roads and their horseshoe shape showcase the dualism contained within this event. Researchers concluded that the roads were created to facilitate ceremonies associated with the sun's annual cycle. Researchers were astounded to find how the Indigenous communities, hundreds of years ago, managed to bring together landscapes and natural and cosmic elements to create a ceremonial space. Experts are now looking forward to understanding the landscapes previously occupied by the Pueblo people and the way they incorporated them with their beliefs.