The Great Settlement
Beneath the rolling plains of Kansas lies the story of a lost city, a thriving settlement hidden for centuries.
Discover Etzanoa, where archaeology, history, and legend meet.`
The Great Settlement,
Lost to Time
More than 400 years ago, thousands of Indigenous people built a vast community along the rivers of southern Kansas. Spanish explorers called it Etzanoa, “The Great Settlement.” For centuries, its story faded into myth… until modern archaeologists uncovered the truth beneath the soil.
Every Shovel Reveals a New Story
Ongoing archaeological research is shedding light on the people who lived here, the ancestors of today’s Wichita and Affiliated Tribes. Excavations have revealed homes, tools, pottery, and trade items that speak to a thriving, complex society.
Step Into History
Join a guided tour and experience the land where the Great Settlement once stood. Visit key sites, learn from local experts, and see the discoveries firsthand. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history lover, or simply curious, Etzanoa invites you to explore.
Our family loved the tour! It is a privilege to see and experience sites of such historical significance in Cowley County.”
Jamie, Ark City
The Etzanoa tour was an eye-opening experience for our students! They enjoyed the storytelling and visiting the stops along the tour. They came back curious and excited to learn even more about the people who once lived here.”
Jeff, middle school teacher
If you are interested in Kansas history or Native American culture, take the tour to learn about this ancient city. The tour guide will keep you engaged!”
Ann, Ark City
Where the Past Inspires the Future
Etzanoa is more than an archaeological site, it’s a place for learning, connection, and discovery. From field schools and student programs to community workshops, we’re helping the next generation uncover the stories that shape our shared history.
Help Us Protect History
The Etzanoa Conservancy is working to preserve and interpret this remarkable site for generations to come. With your support, we can build the Etzanoa Cultural & Immersion Center, a space dedicated to research, education, and storytelling.
Every contribution helps safeguard one of North America’s greatest archaeological discoveries.
Experience the Great Settlement
Step into the story of the Great Settlement. Explore where thousands once lived, walk the same landscapes uncovered by archaeologists, and see history come to life through immersive tours and exhibits.
Whether you’re a history lover, adventurer, or lifelong learner — Etzanoa offers a journey unlike any other.
