Ohio has a fascinating history, and some of its first residents left a few clues about their culture. If you've ever visited any of the unbelievable ruins in Ohio, you're certain to be interested in how these ancient people lived and what their culture was like. Here's a small site that has some of the most incredible petroglyphs you've ever seen, and you're going to want to visit.
Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial is located just north of Jackson, in the southeast part of the state.
Click here for the interactive map to get directions from your location.
The memorial is open every day from dawn to dusk and admission is free.
This beautiful spot was once the home of the Fort Ancient Culture.
Evidence of their existence is found on a large, sandstone rock where 37 petroglyphs can still be seen today. The rock is now preserved under a structure where you can get up close to view these unique markings.
The Fort Ancient Culture lived here from around 1000 AD to 1650 AD.
These are the same people who built Serpent Mound, and anthropologists have learned quite a bit about their culture, thanks to sites like these.
These unique petroglyphs depict a variety of things that were important to the culture, including people...
...birds...
...and animals.
The petroglyphs are much more than representations of words; they were meant to convey a much deeper meaning. While some may tell stories, it's thought that others were created to represent more sophisticated religious and cultural ideas.
While you're there, take a hike along the nature trail.
This pretty, half-mile trail takes you along the ravine and its creek.
You'll find beautiful hemlock groves, wildflowers, and even a small waterfall and pool.
Have you visited Leo Petroglyphs State Memorial? Tell us about your trip!
Are you interested in exploring Ohio's history, both ancient and more recent? Then check out these 15 historical landmarks around Ohio.
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