While most people know that Louisiana has a rich history, many people don’t realize that the state is home to some truly amazing archaeological treasures. We have a multitude of historical sites and artifacts that give us a deep window into life on the Mississippi River before and during early colonization. Here are 7 of the most amazing sites.

1) Poverty Point World Heritage Site 1700 B. C. – 1100 B. C.
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Recently recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site, Poverty Point is completely unique. The design of the mounds here with C-shaped ridges are unlike any other site in the world.
2) Bailey’s Dam 1864
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Built during the civil war, this dam was constructed to free a Union naval squadron that was stuck in low water at the Red River. Using just the materials at hand, the dam is a testament to the perseverance of the Union soldiers.
3) Tchefuncte 600 B.C. – 200 B.C.
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Located in the coastal marsh of southeastern Louisiana, Tchefuncte excavations have demonstrated crucial understanding about the vibrant life of indigenous peoples in the early woodland period.

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4) El Nuevo Constante 1766
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El Neuvo Constante was a Spanish ship that sank in a hurricane near Louisiana on its way from Mexico to Spain. It was discovered in 1979 after a shrimper found copper ingots from the wreck.
5) Los Adaes 1716
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Built by Spanish colonists in 1716, the Los Adaes site was once the capital of Spanish Texas and a scene of unique cooperation between the French, Spanish, and indigenous Native American tribes in the area. Numerous early 18th century artifacts have been found there.
6) Marksville A.D. 1 to A. D. 400
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Over 2,000 years ago members of the Hopewell culture built a series of six mounds and one ring. Other earthworks were also found on the site. Here’s a recreation of the mounds in painting form as well as some examples of artifacts that have been found there.
7) Bayou Jasmine 800 B.C. – A. D. 1400
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A Southeast Louisiana site where indigenous peoples lived for thousands of years when the land was much higher. As the land sank, many artifacts were uncovered, preserved by the mud and silt in the area.

Did you know these sites existed? Have you ever visited one of them? Let us know in the comments below!

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