Along the curvy Route 17 between Flagstaff and Phoenix, tucked away are two architectural phenomenons. They are separated by 23 miles and approximately 800 years but brought together by their ideas of community, agriculture and respect for the land. I am talking about Montezuma Castle built by the Sinagua Indians in 1100ce and Arcosanti still under construction and the careful planning of Paolo Soleri.
Montezuma Castle was built into the cliff face using mud, sticks and the local stone. It along with an adjacent structure provided about 65 rooms for a year round farming community. A local nearby well was irrigated to create a lush farmland that remained clear and unobstructed by the Sinagua’s habitat. But did they just build into the mountain for protection against attack? I would think this was not the main reason if all the surrounding tribes were also friendly Sinagua. Could it be that they also had the same ideas that have been the basic building block for Arcosanti?
Arcosanti is an experimental city built on top of a small stone canyon using many local supplies. The object of this city is to create ways to improve the conditions of urban living while creating minimal impact on the earth. To succeed and make Arcosanti sustainable Paolo Soleri, like the Sinagua, built into the mountain and controlled his local water supply to create and preserve the flat fertile lands for farming. Arcosanti is currently functions as a “company town” providing home to volunteers and employees. It is also a fabulous place to stop for a meal, baked goods, browse the gift shop or just sip coffee while admiring the view from modern castle built into the mountain.
Both Montezuma Castle and Arcosanti make for truly fantastic stop to stretch your legs and let your imagination be intrigued while traveling the 17 between Flagstaff and Scottsdale Phoenix.
