With no written alphabet, records of the Southwest Native Americans were kept in the form of either petroglyphs or pictographs on rock surfaces. By examining their symbolism, we are able to gain significant insight of their existence, a deeper understanding of their spiritual and ceremonial beliefs, and a glimpse into their daily lives. Hundreds of such sites exist and are scattered throughout the world with some of the most artistic ones located in the Mountainair, New Mexico, region. Today, this area is referred to as the Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument and the "gateway to ancient cities."