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Cliff Dwellings

By K. Kris Hirst, About.com

Definition: The term "Cliff dwellings" generally refers to Anasazi culture sites such as Mesa Verde, in the state of Colorado, US, that have residences built right into the sheer cliffs of mountains. These buildings included rooms which were generally carved into the soft stone, and then extended with adobe walls and wood roofs.

This glossary entry is part of the Dictionary of Archaeology. Sources for the term include the references listed on the front page of the Dictionary, and the websites listed in the sidebar. Any mistakes are the responsibility of Kris Hirst.

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