At the mouth of the Miami River, in the heart of downtown, is an incredible archaeological site, the Miami Circle.

This ancient site was discovered in 1999 doing a survey before new construction. It was something archaeologist Robert Carr had never seen before.

A wide circle of holes, about three feet wide and two feet deep, chiseled into the limestone bedrock in a circle thirty-eight feet in diameter.

Remains of shark, dolphin, and sea turtle, along with an axe head, were found in the circle that dated at two thousand years ago. A worldwide media frenzy erupted over the mysterious circle.

There was speculation that it could be an American Stonehenge, a Mayan Stone Calendar, or a vision quest site. People came from all over the world to protest its destruction. Under this intense pressure, the state purchased the property and commissioned a professional study.

It turns out that the holes were used for posts of a large, circular council house of the native Tequesta Indians, who once lived in Miami.

The Miami Circle is a very special place. It symbolizes a past vibrant Indian culture and is preserved right in the heart of Florida's largest city.

Dr. Judy Bense is founder of the UWF Archaeology Institute and Florida Public Archaeology Network. Unearthing Florida is produced by WUWF Public Media.