Situated about 18 miles north of Fredericksburg in the Hill Country of Central Texas, Enchanted Rock is important to three cultural groups. The Native Americans, Spanish explorers, and German settlers all recognized the unusual nature of the area. The pink granite monadnock rises to 1825 feet above sea level, and is the largest natural structure of its type in the United States.
Three known Native American groups revered the dome. The Tonkawa are believed to have named the area. One name translates as ?Spirit Song Rock?, since many people today hear sounds variously described as songs, screams, moans and whispers. Scientists say that the sounds are simply the result of heating and cooling of the basalt surface. Reported sightings of lights which are visible on the surface under certain conditions add to the mystique. The Comanche and Apache Nations also used the area as a spiritual focus point.
The Spanish presence in the Hill Country probably began with Alvar Nunez Cabeza de Vaca in the mid-1500s. Nearly 200 years later, the efforts to colonize Texas by the Spanish included explorations to find a legendary lost silver mine, or the gold of El Dorado. Some tales linked to the ?Crying Rock? include the rescue of Princess Rosa, daughter of Chief Tehuan by a Spanish soldier. The intent of the Comanche captors was to sacrifice her atop the formation. A Spanish priest was pursued into the area caves, and reappeared after two days with a tale of meeting many spirits there.
German settlers around the community of Fredericksburg have been aware of the awe in which the Indians held the dome. The major influx of the German people came in the mid 1800s. They reported that there were stone altars and stone circles aligned in a directionally significant manner atop the dome. Early German settlers believed that the early inhabitants of the region did not approach too close, except during religious ceremonies.
The area is a well known magnet for people who enjoy camping, technical rock climbing, geological study, star gazing, primitive backpacking, hiking, picnicking and bird watching. The State Natural Area is considered to be one of the best venues for climbing in Texas. More than seven miles of trails offer terrain that will please every fitness level. A 1000 foot long granite fissure provides a challenge for experienced rock climbers.
Because Enchanted Rock is important to three cultural groups, it continues to draw people of all ages and cultures to the vicinity. Studying the history of the area will expand enjoyment. North from Fredericksburg on Ranch Road 965, travelers enjoy the Texas Hill Country with its variety of wildlife and plant life.
If you need to know more about how Enchanted Rock is important to three cultural groups, view the site for an example of significant events. You can visit the official website and read more here at http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/state-parks/enchanted-rock right now.
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