The Lost Relics of the El Malpais Lava Flows

The Lost Relics of the El Malpais Lava Flows

The El Malpais region of New Mexico, characterized by its otherworldly lava formations, ancient geological history, and rich cultural heritage, is often overlooked by treasure hunters in favor of more well-known locations. However, the region holds a treasure trove of lost relics tied to indigenous history, colonial encounters, and natural phenomena.

Geological Background

The El Malpais National Monument encompasses an area of approximately 114,277 acres in west-central New Mexico, characterized by a series of volcanic eruptions that date back to the Pleistocene era, roughly 10,000 to 100,000 years ago. The lava flows, formed by basaltic lava, extend more than 30 miles across the landscape and include various geological features such as lava tubes, cinder cones, and volcanic craters.

El Malpais means “the badlands†in Spanish, reflecting the challenging terrain created by the solidified lava flows. The monumental scale of the lava formations provides a unique habitat for diverse plant and animal life, including endemic species that call this harsh environment home. Understanding the geological processes that shaped these flows is crucial for learning about the human history intertwined with this land.

Indigenous Cultures and Early Inhabitants

The pre-Columbian indigenous peoples of the region, including the Puebloan people, inhabited the area for thousands of years before European contact. Archaeological evidence suggests that these cultures thrived due to their adeptness at farming and resource management in harsh environments. The lava flows formed barriers and altered the watercourses, influencing settlement patterns and agricultural practices.

The Zuni, Acoma, and other Pueblo tribes have deep spiritual connections to the landscape, viewing the land as sacred. This connection is reflected in their oral histories and artifacts discovered throughout the monument. According to Zuni traditions, the region’s rock formations hold stories of creation and ancestral spirits, thus marking the area as significant not only geographically but also culturally.

• Excavations have uncovered pottery shards, tools, and ceremonial objects.
• The advent of agriculture in the region around 1000 CE allowed for more permanent settlements.

Spanish Exploration and Colonization

The arrival of Spanish explorers in the late 15th and early 16th centuries marked significant changes for the indigenous populations of New Mexico. In 1540, Spanish explorer Francisco Vázquez de Coronado led an expedition through northern Mexico and into what is now the United States, in search of the fabled Seven Cities of Gold. Although Coronado did not discover gold, his expedition marked the beginning of European colonization in New Mexico.

Spanish settlers established missions and pueblos, significantly impacting the local indigenous populations through forced conversion to Christianity and disparate agricultural practices. By the late 1600s, the Spanish had established routes through the El Malpais region to access resources and facilitate trade. The

Introduction

of European goods and the subsequent establishment of trade routes opened a new chapter in the region’s history.

The Quest for Lost Treasures

The lore of lost treasures in the El Malpais region often arises from historical events, particularly during the Spanish colonial period. One such tale recounts the story of a group of Spanish treasure seekers who supposedly buried their riches somewhere within the vast expanse of the lava flows, hoping to return for it after the coast was clear from threats posed by indigenous tribes or rival factions.

Moreover, the British-American conflict known as the Mexican-American War (1846-1848) fueled rumors of hidden artifacts. Tales of forgotten caches of gold, silver, and other treasures passed through generations, leading to numerous expeditions and attempts to recover these lost relics.

• The tale of the “Lost Gold of the Las Vegas Trail†involves treasures from early settlers and Spanish explorers.
• Local folklore often intertwines with stories of hidden caches lost during conflicts between indigenous populations and settlers.

Notable Artifacts and Sites of Interest

Several notable locations within El Malpais have garnered attention from historians and treasure hunters alike due to their association with lost artifacts. These locations include ancient dwellings, cave systems, and trading routes that provide insight into the cultural heritage of the region.

The Sandstone Bluffs

The Sandstone Bluffs offer a panoramic view and reveal ancient petroglyphs and artifacts. These carvings, created by indigenous peoples, depict mythological creatures, human figures, and daily activities. Some researchers believe that the petroglyphs may indicate the presence of valuable resources, while treasure hunters scour the area for hidden caches that may lie undiscovered.

El Malpais Caves

The volcanic landscape resulted in the formation of numerous lava tubes and caves. The largest of these, the La Ventana Natural Arch, is also home to rumored relics left behind by both indigenous populations and later Spanish encampments. The caves serve as a historical record of early habitation, with tools, pottery, and other artifacts found within them that illuminate the lives of the people who once traversed these lands.

The “Spanish Gold” Legend

A prominent legend that persists is that of the Spanish gold hidden somewhere in the El Malpais area. The story goes that a group of Spanish soldiers stumbled upon a rich silver mine, which they subsequently abandoned for fear of indigenous attacks. Allegedly, some of their gold and silver stash was hidden in the lava fields, leading to an ongoing search for this fabled treasure. Many treasure hunters utilize maps from historical accounts or oral traditions to search for elusive caches.

Modern Treasure Hunts

In recent years, enthusiasts and amateur archaeologists have turned their attention to El Malpais, fueled by stories of lost treasures and untold riches. With advancements in technology, including ground-penetrating radar and drone surveillance, treasure hunters are better equipped than ever to explore this challenging landscape.

Exploratory groups such as the New Mexico Treasure Hunters’ Association have organized joint expeditions into the area, examining specific sites with historical relevance. Some groups focus on what remains to be discovered from the indigenous cultures, advocating for the conservation of historic artifacts while conducting their searches. Despite the challenges posed by the rugged terrain, excitement abounds in the quest to unearth treasures long thought lost to time.

• Expeditions often include archaeologists who focus on authenticating artifacts.
• Lease agreements with the Bureau of Land Management enable some treasure hunters legal access to explore.

Preservation and Legal Implications

The delicate balance between treasure hunting and archaeological preservation is critical within the El Malpais region. The Archaeological Resources Protection Act of 1979 is designed to protect archaeological sites, thereby restricting unauthorized excavation and removal of artifacts. Violating these regulations can result in heavy fines and legal consequences for treasure hunters.

Modern treasure hunters must navigate Laws regarding artifact recovery and environmental protection, including permits for documented digs or scientific exploration. Engaging with local tribes for permission is also essential, acknowledging their historical and spiritual connection to the land.

Conclusion: The Legacy of El Malpais

The lost relics of the El Malpais lava flows encapsulate a multifaceted narrative of human interaction with the land, weaving together the histories of indigenous peoples, Spanish explorers, and modern treasure hunters. The monument stands as a testament to the enduring allure of hidden treasures and the stories buried within the landscape. Every expedition into El Malpais is more than a quest for material wealth; it is an exploration of the rich tapestry of history, culture, and geography that defines New Mexico.

References

• Pray, R., & Williams, J. (2008). “The Archaeology of the El Malpais National Monument.†New Mexico Archaeology, 33(1), 1-
• Smith, E. H. (2012). “The Spanish Conquistadors and Their Impact on New Mexico.†The New Mexico Historical Review, 87(3), 303-
• New Mexico Treasure Hunters Association. (2023). “Expeditions and Historical Artifacts.†New Mexico Treasure Hunters’ Official Website.
• Pueblo of Zuni Government. (2021). “Cultural Heritage and Preservation.†Retrieved from
• Archaeological Resources Protection Act of (Public Law 96-95, 93 Stat. 721).
• U.S. Bureau of Land Management. (2023). “Recreational Use and Archaeological Studies in El Malpais.†Retrieved from