Cahokia: A Hub of Ancient Innovation and Ceremony
Cahokia refers to the archaeological site of an ancient Native American city located in present-day Collinsville, Illinois, near St. Louis, Missouri. The site is named after the Cahokia tribe, who inhabited the region when European explorers arrived in the 17th century. Cahokia was the center of a pre-Columbian Mississippian civilization that flourished between the 9th and 15th centuries. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is renowned for its earthen mounds, which were constructed by the Mississippian people. The largest of these mounds is known as Monk's Mound, a massive earthen pyramid that served as the focal point of the city. Monk's Mound is the largest pre-Columbian earthwork in North America. It covers over 14 acres and rises approximately 100 feet in height. At its summit, there was a large structure, possibly a chief's residence or a ceremonial complex. Surrounding Monk's Mound is a large plaza area, which likely served as a central gathering space for ce...