Mount Horeb Earthworks In Kentucky Baffle Archeologists

Here in Kentucky, we know that epic adventures abound above and below ground. From the world-famous Mammoth Caves to Red River Gorge, the Bluegrass State is surrounded by wondrous worlds just waiting to be explored. In Fayette County, Kentucky, there is another wonder that’s literally hiding in plain sight. The Mount Horeb Earthworks in Kentucky are two ancient sites that offer a fascinating glimpse into the past — the prehistoric past, that is.

Here in Kentucky, we know the best adventures are often found underfoot.

The Mount Horeb Earthworks Complex in Lexington, Kentucky, is one of the most intriguing subterranean wonders in the Bluegrass, as it's hiding right in plain sight!

The earthwork at Mt. Horeb was constructed by the ancient Adena people about 2,000 years ago in order to conduct ceremonies and rituals important to their culture.

The site consists of two major components, the Mount Horeb Site 1 and the Peter Village enclosure, along with several smaller features including the Grimes Village site, Tarleton Mound, and Fisher Mound.

This "sacred circle" earthwork at Adena Park caught the attention of historians in the early 1820s. The site was partially excavated in 1939 as part of Kentucky’s statewide depression-relief efforts funded by the Works Projects Administration. At that time, it was owned by the Kentucky Archaeological Society, which had purchased the site in 1936. Most recently, the site has been owned and maintained by the University of Kentucky for over 30 years.

In fact, the University of Kentucky encourages students and staff to visit this captivating site; to explore, wander, and even enjoy a picnic or a bit of wildlife watching. Adena Park is open year-round, by reservation, to UK students and employees.

Permission to enter the park for those not affiliated with UK must be obtained from its Department of Campus Recreation. The park closes at 10 p.m., and there is a $10 deposit required to secure a gate key.

The Mount Horeb Earthworks of Kentucky have long captured the imagination and curiosity of archaeologists and students, providing telling breadcrumbs that lead to a different time and place... all in *this* present time and place.

Did you know about these ancient earthworks in the Bluegrass? The Mount Horeb Earthworks are a must-visit for all Kentucky historians and curious learners.

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Mount Horeb Pike, Mt Horeb Pike, Lexington, KY 40511, USA

The Ancient Earthworks In Kentucky That Still Baffle Archaeologists To This Day

Sarah McCosham

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