There are lots of historic sites in Mississippi, but none are quite as mysterious and intriguing as the Nanih Waiya Mound. A sacred site, it’s celebrated as the birthplace of the Choctaw civilization. Taking its significance into account, you’d assume information about the mound is readily available. However, there’s a lot about the ancient mound in Mississippi that remains unknown, including when it was built.

Rising 25 feet out of the ground and nestled along the highway, the Nanih Waiya Mound is clearly visible to passers-by, yet most are unaware of its importance.
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Billed as the most significant Native American mound site in Mississippi, ancient legend says it’s where the Choctaw nation was born.
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Another legend says that the Choctaw built the mound and buried their deceased ancestors inside.
François Bernard/Wikimedia

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Archaeologists haven’t been able to confirm either, though. In fact, studying the mound has only led to more questions.
Shay Cumber/Google
Its rectangular, flat-topped shape imply it was built between 1000 and 1600 A.D.; however, pottery shards found at the site date back to 100 B.C. to 400 A.D.
Justin Littrell/Google
For years, the state of Mississippi owned the Nanih Waiya Mound. However, in 2008, it was returned to the Choctaw Nation.
wikimedia.org
In order to excavate the mound and learn more about it, permission from the Choctaw nation is needed. However, because the site is sacred, it is unlikely permission will be granted and that means the origin of the mound will remain a mystery.
Lois Dockery/Google

Remember, as of 2008, the Nanih Waiya Mound is managed by the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

So, did you know about this mound? Ever seen it in person? If so, what’d you think? Know of another mystifying site? Tell us!

This sacred mound isn’t the only site that’s sure to intrigue history buffs. The state boasts some amazing historic sites, including Grand Gulf Military Park.

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Nanih Waiya Mound, Louisville, MS 39339, USA