The Three Mesas

First Mesa

The community of Polacca lies about eleven miles west of Keams Canyon. Atop the mesa, there are also the older villages of Hanoki (Hano or Tewa), Sitsomovi (Sichomovi), and Waalpi (Walpi). The village of Hanoki was originally settled by Rio Grande Tanoan-speaking pueblo people from New Mexico shortly after the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. Close to Hanoki is the village of Sitsomovi. It was founded in 1750. The village of Waalpi was established in 1690. First Mesa villages are world-renowned for their hand-coiled, white pottery.

Second Mesa

Second Mesa is comprised of three villages, Musungnuvi (Mishongnovi), Supawlavi (Shipaulovi), and Songoopavi (Shongopovi). Munsungnuvi and Supawlavi occupy the mesa top on the East and West respectively. A few miles west of the Second Mesa Store is Songoopavi. Said to be the first of all the Hopi villages, Songoopavi was originally at the base of the mesa, but moved to its present site after the Pueblo Revolt of 1680. This village is also well known for it's remarkable silversmiths and coiled plaques.

Third Mesa

The villages of Orayvi (Oraibi), Kiqotsmovi (Kykotsmovi), Hoatvela (Hotevilla), and Paaqavi (Bacavi) are located on Third Mesa. Although removed, Munqapi (Moencopi) is also considered one of the Third Mesa villages. Munqapi is located 40 miles northwest of Third Mesa near Tuba City. It is considered a satellite of Orayvi. Kiqotsmovi is the seat of the Hopi Tribal Government. Orayvi is the oldest continuously-inhabited village in North America.

Every village is separate and autonomous. Vehicles are limited to certain parking areas within each village, just ask. Please be aware of the rules and regulations before entering the villages. Some Hopi villages may be closed to the public due to religious ceremonies. If this is the case, please respect their wishes and their privacy and do not enter.

For more information on these villages, click Hopi Villages

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