Casas Grandes

Understand

Paquime, sometimes called Casas Grandes (the nearby town name, and name of the valley), is the largest and most significant archaelogical site in northern Mexico or the southwestern United States. The site contains adobe structures similar to those built by the Pueblo people as well as features, like a ballcourt, similar to those in Toltec, Aztec and Mayan sites. Paquime is valued for its unique architectural style, embracing open spaces and employing adobe construction techniques, rounded curves, and gentle arches. Much of the Paquime archaelogical site remains unexcavated.

History Paquime was a vibrant indigenous community built by the Mogollon culture between 700 and 1350 AD. Paquime is thought to have been a commercial center that traded between the Pueblo civilizations to the north, and the more advanced civilizations (such as the Toltec) of Central Mexico. Paquime was a growing community up until its demise in 1350 AD. The reasons for its collapse are uncertain, but may have been due to drought or possibly to war (possibly with the Tarascans), though disease might have played a role as well. Archaeologists have found signs of a massive fire happening in 1350. Beneath the floors of some of the residential structures, archaeologists found skeletons, leading them to believe that the culture buried its dead within the home. The residential areas of the site are quite extensive with buildings ranging from 1-story to 5-story apartment buildings. Some of the 1-story structures are built clustered around a shared courtyard area where metates and other food preparation tools were found. One of the most unexpected structures at the site is an aviary. Paquime is thought to have trafficked in tropical birds, buying them from the Toltec traders of central Mexico and selling them to the southwest indigenous groups to the north. Remains of cages can be seen along the wall and site markers show where more than 100 skeletons of parrots and macaws (birds not native to Chih

Getting there

The easiest way to reach Casas Grandes (Paquime) is by car. Cross the U.S./Mexico border at Columbus, New Mexico. Take Mexico Highway 2 south for about 2 hours (123 miles) to Nuevo Casas Grandes/Casas Grandes. It is also possible to take a bus. Nuevo Casas Grandes is served by Futura buses from Chihuahua (about 3-1/2 hours, fare 447 pesos (March 2022).

Getting around

It's an archaeological site, so you'll be doing a lot of walking. Bring the hiking boots and comfortable socks. A hat will help with the sun.

Buy

Look for Mata Ortiz ceramics (or visit the Mata Ortiz pueblo, nearby). Juan Quezada and his students follow the traditional practices, bringing life to the colors and patterns of relics found in the Paquime ruins. The distinctive style of Mata Ortiz pottery makes it some of the most collectible pottery in Mexico.

Eat

Light snacks and drinks can be purchased in the site's gift shop. More substantial food is available in the nearby town of Nuevo Casas Grandes.

Drink & nightlife

Several bars are in Nuevo Casas Grandes.

Queen's Bar, Av Benito Juárez 2610, Nuevo Casas Grandes. 8PM-2AM, Thursday-Saturday.. Outdoor patio bar with craft beer and live music. (updated Aug 2022)

Sleep

Lodging is available in the nearby town of Nuevo Casas Grandes. There is no camping or backcountry options available in Paquime.

Hotel Hacienda, Av. Benito Juárez 2603, Nuevo Casas Grandes, ☏ +52 636 694 1046. Modern rooms, outdoor pool, bar and restaurant. Durazno Inn, Av. Benito Juárez 605 (Centro Nuevo Casas Grandes), ☏ +52 636 694 0847. US$35.

Go next

Chihuahua Ciudad Madera Cumbres de Majalca National Park