For first time in a century, first & only UNESCO world heritage site in Central Ohio open to public

Courtesy of The Ohio Ancient Trail

Visitors are now welcome to visit the first, and only, UNESCO World Heritage Site in Newark, Ohio.

The Octagon Earthworks site, located at 125 N. 33rd St. in Newark, features two combined earthwork enclosures positioned above the floodplain of Raccoon Creek, including a 20-acre circle and a 50-acre octagon, connected by a small passageway.

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This network of “Earthworks” is one of the many Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks built by American Indians 2,000 years ago. The Newark site is the largest earthwork complex, including geometric shapes interconnected by low walls, all built from earth, and carried by human hands, laid intentionally one basketful at a time.

Groups of American Indians all over North America gathered at the Newark Earthwords to practice spiritual traditions and connect with one another and appreciate the world around them, according to Ohio History Connection.

There’s also a museum and bookstore on the site! Dogs are welcome, too, as long as they’re leashed.

Visit the incredible site daily during daylight hours.

Want to read more? Check out our print publications, (614) Magazine and Stock & Barrel. Learn where you can find free copies of our newest issues here!

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