The Ancestral Pueblo culture, often referred to as the Anasazi, is distinctive for several reasons that set it apart from other pre-Columbian cultures in North America:

1. Architectural Achievements: The Ancestral Pueblo people are renowned for their unique architectural styles, particularly their cliff dwellings and large multi-storied structures known as "Great Houses." These were constructed using sandstone blocks and adobe mortar. The most famous examples are found in Chaco Canyon and Mesa Verde.

2. Complex Society and Trade: They developed a complex society with a sophisticated system of roads connecting various settlements. Chaco Canyon, in particular, served as a major center of trade and ceremonial activity, linking the Ancestral Pueblo people with distant cultures across the Southwest and Mesoamerica.

3. Agricultural Practices: The Ancestral Puebloans practiced dry farming and relied heavily on maize cultivation, adapting to the arid environment of the American Southwest. They developed techniques for water conservation, such as building check dams and terraces.

4. Kiva Structures: Kivas, ceremonial underground rooms, are a hallmark of Ancestral Pueblo culture. These structures were used for religious rituals and community gatherings, reflecting the cultural and spiritual life of the people.

5. Pottery and Art: The Ancestral Puebloans are known for their distinctive black-on-white pottery, which features intricate geometric designs. This pottery not only served practical purposes but also held cultural significance.

6. Cultural Continuity: Unlike some other pre-Columbian cultures that vanished or were assimilated, the Ancestral Pueblo culture evolved into contemporary Pueblo communities. Many of the traditions, languages, and cultural practices have been preserved and continue to be part of the identity of modern Pueblo peoples.

These distinguishing features highlight the Ancestral Pueblo culture's adaptability, innovation, and lasting influence on the cultural landscape of the American Southwest.