Showing posts with label new places. Show all posts
Showing posts with label new places. Show all posts

Sunday, July 1, 2012

Visit the Past in Zacatecas

On the imaginary line of the Tropic of Cancer in the state of Zacatecas in Mexico, about 55 kilometers south of the capital city of Zacatecas, there is an amazing archaeological site called La Quemada. Driving down the highway you would never know you were close if you missed the small archaeological sign with a small pyramid on it. I was glad I didn't miss that one. This truly was a great place to see. This Mesoamerican site is also known as Chicomóztoc.
The masonry (clay mixed with vegetable fibers to build the bricks) platforms and towers have been identified by archaeologist as having been built somewhere between 300 and 700 AD, and is said to have been used as a central location for trade. Historians have associated the sight with different cultures. There is even speculation that it is the mythical place of "The Seven Caves", but no one knows for sure. There are also signs that it was used throughout many centuries after these dates, and the people are even thought to have minded the surrounding areas for minerals, obsidian, salt and more . The eleven columns that still incredibly remain, are said to have been supports for a roof for this large area and may have even housed human sacrifices. La Quemada is a great place to learn about the past cultures of the Americas. 
There is a small museum at the entrance where you can see a smaller model of the entire location and also watch a movie about the area and how the site was populated and used over the years. This was an extremely intriguing and captivating place to visit the past.  
















Monday, June 11, 2012

Visit Natchitoches Louisiana and Enjoy a BBQ Cook-Off


I have driven highway 49 in Louisiana many times from Baton Rouge to Shreveport and always wanted to stop by this little town and take a look. It was a wonderful experience that left me wanting to return to spend an entire week or at least a long weekend. Not only did I enjoy seeing this little town, but there is a fort and beautiful southern plantations in the area too! What a great little town on the Red River. This quaint little town offers the enjoyment for locals and visitors of lovely Lake Sibley. To my surprise, when I arrived there was a Bar-B-Que cook-off fundraiser for some local ball teams, and everyone was settling up. What fun and what delicious food! 





Here are a few of my favorite B-B-Q Teams in the fundraiser cook-off competition:








More pictures around town: