The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks World Heritage Site is actually a constellation of eight distinct locations across southern and central Ohio. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the world of the Hopewell culture.
The Newark Earthworks
- Great Circle Earthworks: A vast circular enclosure nearly 1,200 feet in diameter, used for ceremonies and gatherings.
- Octagon Earthworks: A geometric marvel aligned to the moon’s 18.6-year cycle, possibly used as an ancient lunar observatory.
- More on Newark Earthworks
Fort Ancient Earthworks
- The largest hilltop enclosure in North America, with 3.5 miles of earthen walls. Once thought to be a fort, it’s now understood as a ceremonial center.
- Fort Ancient Earthworks & Nature Preserve
Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
- Mound City Group: A collection of 23 burial mounds within a geometric enclosure.
- Hopewell Mound Group, Seip Earthworks, High Bank Works, Hopeton Earthworks: Each site features unique combinations of mounds, embankments, and enclosures, reflecting different ceremonial uses.
- Hopewell Culture National Historical Park
Visiting the Sites
Many of these earthworks are open to the public, with visitor centers, interpretive trails, and annual events. Together, they form a landscape of memory and meaning.
Plan your journey:
