Hopi Nation

Although completely surrounded by the Navajo reservation, the Hopi people have a long history that is distinctly different from their neighbors. The major Hopi villages are located at the top of three mesas in Northeastern Arizona. Each village is independent and practices its own style of government.

All Hopi villages have gifted artisans, and distinctions can be made by the crafts that each village produces. The first mesa people are known for their Hopi polychrome pottery. Second mesa people specialize in Hopi silver overlay jewelry and coiled basketry. The third mesa people produce colorful works of wicker and twill basketry. All Hopi villages produce Katsina (kachina) doll carvings. Crafts may be purchased directly from the artisans or from the locally owned shops on the reservation.

Visitors are welcome to the Hopi reservation although photography, sketching, video taping and sound recording is strictly prohibited by Hopi law. If visitors are allowed to witness a Hopi ceremony, they should be respectful and not ask questions.

For information contact: Hopi Cultural Preservation Office, PO Box 123, Kykotsmovi, AZ 86039, (928) 734-3000. www.hopi.nsn.us