kivas

Kivas are underground or semi-subterranean chambers traditionally used by Native American cultures, particularly in the Southwestern United States. They served as spaces for religious ceremonies, rituals, and community gatherings. Often circular in shape, kivas feature a fire pit and a ventilation shaft, symbolizing connections to the earth and the spiritual world. Kivas reflect the cultural and social lives of the communities that built them, demonstrating their architectural ingenuity and spiritual beliefs. Today, they are considered important archaeological and cultural heritage sites, offering insights into the history and traditions of these ancient peoples.