Shallow caves in central Arizona protect masonry dwellings built in the early 14th Century. These and additional sites in the surrounding areas were home to the Salado people. They left no written record of their existence, no chronology of events that shaped their society. The most vivid signs of life are in their pottery, in remnants of fabric, in smoke stains from their cook fires, and in handprints on pueblo walls.
Most of what we know - or think we know - about the Salado has been reconstructed from what remains of their material culture - their personal and community belongings. In addition, plants and animals that made up their natural environment still thrive here. Like pieces of a puzzle, each element contributes to the larger picture of Salado culture. Take a virtual tour of Tonto National Monument to learn more about these people and their environment.
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