North America (Mound Builders and Cliff Dwellers)

Author: Zhang Libin, et al.
Publisher:
Publication Date: 2004-01-01
Features: The volumes of Lost Civilizations showcase the trajectory of the origins and early transformations of civilizations, long forgotten by later generations. Reading them is like adults revisiting old photographs from their childhood—each scene evoking a faint sense of nostalgia. This series can be enjoyed as an art album while also serving as a reference for travelers to the world, helping them discover the must-see historical sites and landmarks. The process of civilization development is never simple or linear. No ancient civilization in history has avoided multiple twists and turns, or even regression. Some civilizations ultimately faded away and were lost. Many creations of civilizations vanished in the flow of time, reappearing only after many generations. Archaeology is called the pursuit of lost civilizations precisely for this reason—under the spades and trowels of archaeologists, countless unexpected discoveries have been made. Many things traditionally thought to belong only to the modern era actually have ancient origins. The designers of Pueblo Bonito demonstrated remarkable understanding of harnessing solar energy and staying cool. The thick stone walls—with only a few small windows and doors—help regulate Chaco's unstable temperatures, keeping the dwellings comfortable even during the summer heat. This multi-story, north-south-oriented complex slopes downward from the back to the front, forming platform roofs that allow each level of the structure to maximize sunlight exposure in winter. Despite Pueblo Bonito being just a ruin and suffering severe damage to its back wall from a mudslide in the 20th century, it remains the jewel of Chaco.