Cliff dwelling
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![Cavates and pathways in soft tuff at Tsankawi, New Mexico](/Images/godic/202501/03/Tsankawi,_cavattes_&_steps1120.jpg")
In archeology, cliff dwellings are dwellings formed by using niches or caves in high cliffs, with more or less excavation or with additions in the way of masonry.
Two special sorts of cliff-dwelling are distinguished by archaeologists, the cliff-house, which is actually built on levels in the cliff, and the cavate, which is dug out, by using natural recesses or openings.