New Mexico has quite a history. Native Americans lived on the land thousands of years ago and every day, experts are still trying to learn a little more about their life. But, there is one discovery that remains a mystery and has left archaeologists scratching their heads — the mystery of the Burnt Corn Pueblos.

The Galisteo Basin is located just south of Santa Fe. This area features thousands of acres of beautiful sandstone formations, arroyos, grasslands, and more.
Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble/Flickr
But tucked away and along a ridge in the Galisteo Basin was once a small pueblo village. It is believed this village was established more than 700 years ago. The people who lived in the area grew corn and would dry it on their roofs.
Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble/Flickr
This area is just adjacent to the well-known Petroglyph Hill.
Archaeologists discovered this area years ago. Here, they found nine structures that were made of stone and mud brick. All of the roofs were made of wood. So, what is so unique about this location and why would it have experts so puzzled?
Ken Lund/Flickr

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Archaeologists believe that the entire village burned, with the corn scattered and thrown on the ground.
Ken Lund/Flickr
Samples from the area show the entire village burned at the same time and within 20 years after it was established. All of the samples were also the same age, telling experts that nothing was ever replaced. Archaeologists also believe the village burned during the autumn months due to the condition of the corn found.
Archaeologists want to know why an entire village would burn down and why food was left in such an unusual way.
Jerry Willis/Flickr
Some experts wondered if the village was burned in a wildfire but others believe this is highly unlikely. Petroglyphs in the area depict a lot of war and violence. However, there is no sign of a battle in the area. Data also shows that the pueblos were burned from the inside, with fireplaces sealed off.
While many experts disagree and have their own theories about what happened to the Burnt Corn Pueblos in the Galisteo Basin, one thing is for sure — this is quite the mystery.
Paul Asman and Jill Lenoble/Flickr

Have you heard of the Burnt Corn Pueblos? What do you think caused the village to burn down? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments!

While there may be mystery in the Galisteo Basin, there is also beauty! Wild horses still reside in this area and you may see the herd when visiting today.

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Galisteo Basin Preserve, Astral Valley Rd, Lamy, NM 87540, USA