Unexplained Encounters at Puye Cliff Dwellings: A Paranormal Tour in New Mexico
Introduction to the Puye Cliff Dwellings
During my trip to New Mexico in 1993, I had the opportunity to visit the Puye Cliff Dwellings. Located within tribal lands, the site provides visitors with a unique glimpse into ancient Puebloan culture and history. As a less developed and less commercialized site in that era, it offered a peaceful and immersive hiking experience, free from the chaos of overcrowded tourist spots.
Entering the Site and Local Customs
Upon arriving, we were welcomed by guides, who had a keen eye for determining whether visitors were respectful and considerate. This initial interaction set the tone for a thoughtful and respectful visit throughout the site. The landscape was unmarked by extensive signage, allowing for a more autonomous exploration, punctuated only by occasional guide-led tours for those eager to learn more.
The Photography Dilemma
Photography was allowed at the Puye Cliff Dwellings, making it an ideal destination for capturing memories of the unique architecture and scenery. However, certain rules were in place to ensure that the site remained intact and sacred, particularly within the kivas (traditional Puebloan meeting places). Despite these guidelines, ignorance often leads to breaking rules unconsciously.
The Curious Case of the Missing Sunglasses
As I and my companion wandered through the kivas, prescribed by unwritten customary norms, we were using our cameras to capture the moment. Unfortunately, a series of events followed: my sunglasses fell off during my descent into the kiva, and they hit the hard earth floor, scratching both lenses irreparably. The same fate befell my friend's glasses, mirroring the event with uncanny precision.
Photography Agonies and Revelations
Unaware that we were supposed to adhere to specific photography policies, we captured photographs inside the kivas. Upon developing the film, it became apparent that all photos taken inside the kivas were over-exposed and white, despite the lack of direct sunlight. Photos taken outside the kivas remained sharp and clear.
Beyond the Rational Explanation: Paranormal Interpretations
The incident left a lingering sense of unease. The damaged sunglasses and subsequent over-exposure of the kiva photographs seemed to be more than mere accidents. My friends and I pondered whether the incident was a cautionary tale, a reminder of what lies beyond the visible and tangible. Could it have been a manifestation of paranormal activity, a reminder of the spiritual nature of the cliffs and kivas?
Many believe that Puye Cliff Dwellings holds a myriad of mysteries, steeped in history and shrouded in mystery. Some view this as a paranormal experience, a subtle reminder of the unseen forces that move through these ancestral ruins. Whether it's a tale of caution or an enigmatic encounter, the incident at Puye remains an unexplained and unforgettable part of my journey through New Mexico.
Conclusion
The Puye Cliff Dwellings are a fascinating and enigmatic destination, and the experience of visiting this site can be as much a mystical encounter as a historical exploration. The incident with the sunglasses and the over-exposed photographs serves as a reminder of the complex, often unexplained nature of these ancient places. Whether one interprets these events as mere coincidences or as signs of a subtle otherworldly presence, the experience at Puye Cliff Dwellings is one that will resonate long after the photos have been developed and the memories have faded.