Alfred V. Kidder, archaeologist from Phillips Academy of Andover, Massachusetts, pioneered excavations at Pecos from 1915 to 1924. As one dwelling fell into ruins, a new one was simply constructed on top of the old one. In one area, excavations have uncovered six levels of dwellings. Remains of more than 20 kivas, underground ceremonial chambers that play a role in Pueblo religion, dot the ruins. On the southern edge of the mesa, the trail leads through the ruins of the church built in 1716.
Sunlight streams in through a roofless nave outlined by reddish walls still many feet thick.
Adjoining the sanctuary is the remains of the convento.