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So, many of us probably recognize that the name Hopi refers to the nation of Hopi people. But, are you aware just how rich and long the history of these people really is? Here comes a great Trivial Pursuit Fact for ya! Did you know that the village of the Oraibi in Arizona's Black Mesa is the oldest continuously inhabited community in North America?

In fact, Oraibi is thought to have been founded sometime around 1100 AD. We're talking during the time of the First Crusade! And, Oraibi is still home to many Hopi today. The Hopi people have long cherished the Grand Canyon. For them, it's much more than just a place of unending natural beauty. No, this is where their civilization began.

The Hopi creation story says that inside the Grand Canyon, lies a mysterious gateway from which humans emerged into this world known as the Sipapuni. This mystical gateway is hidden deep within the canyon. After we head back on Desert Drive, I'll share more about this sacred point of origin. Sadly, the Sipapuni, which is also an important landmark for the Hopi, Navajo, Zuni, and other native peoples, is not immune to the dangers of mass tourism.

For years, developers lobbied to build a mega hotel right near the Sipapuni. A decade long battle with conservationists ensued. And to the dismay of big business, big tourism, and the folks at Greed-R-Us, the proposal was recently shut down. And there were also plans to run a cable car directly to the sacred spot. Ugh! While this development project was ultimately rejected, it's only a matter of time (and politics) until someone tries again. 

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