Pueblo Bonito, with a population of about 2000, was built over a period of four hundred years and had over 600 rooms. The construction, unlike that of the homes of the greater surrounding area, was well planned and detailed. Not used for daily life, purpose of the pueblo is unknown. Starting with a series of buildings attached in semicircular pattern, construction progressed and expanded to enclose the area in what is called a "D shaped" pattern. The Great Kiva, named for its size, was probably a center for ceremonial events. There were also interior rooms lacking ventilation that may have been for storage.
Over 100 years ago archeologists began excavating the area and collecting artifacts. In order to preserve the area, the park service stopped excavations in the 1970s. There are other construction sites that are less exposed. Petroglyphs are located near the visitors center.