Kituwah

Kituwah is a historically significant Cherokee town located on the Tuckasegee River in Swain County, North Carolina. It is considered one of the most important and ancient Cherokee settlements. The name Kituwah is believed to mean "the center of things" or "sacred place" in the Cherokee language. The site is renowned for its well-preserved earthwork mound, which is a testament to the advanced agricultural and societal organization of the Cherokee people. Archaeological evidence suggests continuous occupation of the Kituwah site for at least a millennium, dating back to around 1000 CE.

The Kituwah mound served as a central ceremonial and political hub for the community. It was a place of great spiritual importance, where important rituals and gatherings took place. The town itself was a large settlement, indicative of the Cherokees' sophisticated settlement patterns and their deep connection to the land. Kituwah played a prominent role in Cherokee history and culture, serving as a model for other Cherokee towns.

Following the forced removal of the Cherokee people in the 19th century, the Kituwah site fell into disuse and was largely forgotten by mainstream society. However, it remained a sacred and revered place for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. In recent decades, efforts have been made to preserve and protect the Kituwah site, recognizing its immense historical, cultural, and archaeological value. The site is now considered a National Historic Landmark and is actively managed for preservation and educational purposes. It stands as a powerful reminder of the rich heritage of the Cherokee Nation.