Travel Thursday: Serpent Mound and Fort Ancient

I've always had an interest in Native American earthworks. I think they're fascinating. Why were they built and for who?  I am lucky to have Angel Mounds almost in my backyard, literally. One of the earth works that has fascinated me the most is Serpent Mound in Southern Ohio. I remember learning about Serpent Mound in college and I have always wanted to see it in person. So, one beautiful fall weekend while I was in grad school, I decided to make a visit. 

Serpent Mound is the largest surviving effigy mound in the world, at over 1300 feet long. However, it's purpose is unknown. 

It was constructed by the Fort Ancient culture, which flourished in this part of the country and is named after Fort Ancient, a site not too far from Serpent Mound that was constructed by the Hopewell and later inhabited by the Fort Ancient peoples. It is situated atop a plateau and is comprised of earthen walls and mounds.

Looking out over the gorge. The bridge in the distance is I 71.

It was a very cool and educational trip and something that I highly recommend seeing if you're interested in this kind of stuff!

Don't forget to check me out on Bekah's blog today!