Precolumbian historical sites in the Americas have always been one of my keen interests, and when it comes to the U.S. Southwest I´ve got a long bucket list. High on it is this U.S. National Monument within the boundaries of the Navaho Nation in the state´s northeast, four hours from Flagstaff. It´s called Tsegi in Navaho, and Chelly is a Spanish adaptation of the word, though in English it´s pronounced " Shay" because its spelling apparently looked French (yeah, I´m confused, too).

Anyhow, the area was settled by the ancient Puebloans as far back as 5,000 years, and you can visit their cliff dwellings, with ranger-led hikes and Navaho-guide-led jeep tours available. 40 Navaho families still live here.



Potok71