Cahokia: The Largest Pre-Columbian City North of Mexico
Cahokia, located on the eastern shores of the Mississippi River in what is now Illinois, flourished between 1050 and 1200 AD. Covering nearly six square miles, it stood as the largest settlement north of Mexico, with a peak population of around 15,000 in the central area and over 30,000 when including nearby communities—surpassing medieval London. The city was home to Monks Mound, a colossal earthen structure meticulously constructed over many years, oriented with the central plaza and solstices. As a significant trade center, it dealt in items such as Gulf shells, Great Lakes copper, and volcanic obsidian. By the 13th century, factors like environmental strain and political turmoil led to its decline, culminating in its abandonment by the mid-1300s. Today, Cahokia is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Key facts
- Cahokia was located on the eastern banks of the Mississippi River in present-day Illinois.
- Its peak was between 1050 and 1200 AD.
- The city spanned almost six square miles.
- Population estimates: 15,000 in the main city, over 30,000 including surrounding settlements.
- Monks Mound is a four-terraced earthen mound built in stages over decades.
- Buildings and plazas were aligned with solstices and equinoxes.
- Trade goods included Gulf shells, Great Lakes copper, and obsidian.
- Cahokia declined by the 13th century and was abandoned by the mid-1300s.
Entities
Artists
- Herb Roe
- Michael Hampshire
Institutions
- Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site
- UNESCO
- Bryn Mawr College
Locations
- Illinois
- Mississippi River
- St. Louis
- Missouri
- Great Lakes
- Gulf of Mexico