Historic Centre Of Oaxaca And Archaeological Site Of Monte Albán

Guide to the Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán

Introduction

Welcome to a comprehensive guide for exploring two UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Mexico: the Historic Centre of Oaxaca City and the Archaeological Site of Monte Albán. This guide will provide you with essential information, tips, and recommendations to make your visit memorable and enriching.

The Historic Centre of Oaxaca City

Overview

Oaxaca City is the capital of the state of Oaxaca, located in the south-central part of Mexico. It’s renowned for its vibrant culture, traditional crafts, and delicious cuisine. Its historic center is an open-air museum, where you can find colonial buildings, indigenous markets, and ancient ruins coexisting harmoniously.

Key Attractions

  1. Zócalo (Plaza de la Constitución) - The heart of Oaxaca City, this lively square hosts numerous cultural events, markets, and food stalls. Surrounding the plaza are significant colonial buildings like the Benito Juárez House and the Santo Domingo Church.

  2. Santo Domingo de Guzmán - A former monastery, now turned into a museum, showcasing an extensive collection of religious art. The museum’s baroque architecture is also worth admiring.

  3. Rufino Tamayo Museum - Dedicated to the work of Oaxacan artist Rufino Tamayo, this modernist building houses an impressive collection of pre-Hispanic and contemporary art.

  4. Templo de Quiróguare - A Zapotec temple dating back to the 9th century AD, located within the Museo Arqueológico de Oaxaca.

  5. Markets - Visit Mercado Benito Juárez or Mercado 20 de Noviembre for a glimpse of local life and to purchase traditional Oaxacan goods, including textiles, pottery, and food.

Archaeological Site of Monte Albán

Overview

Monte Albán is an ancient Zapotec city located approximately 6 km southwest of modern-day Oaxaca City. The site was continuously occupied from the 500 BC to the 700 AD and served as the political, religious, and economic center for the Zapotec civilization.

Key Attractions

  1. Main Plaza - The heart of Monte Albán, this plaza is surrounded by impressive stone buildings, including the Danzante Palace, the Danza de los Viejitos, and the Platform of the Columns.

  2. The Ballcourt - A significant architectural feature at Monte Albán, the ballcourt was used for playing a Mesoamerican ball game called “Pelota.”

  3. Tomb 7 - This tomb, located within the Danzante Palace, features intricate carvings and is considered one of the most important examples of Zapotec art.

  4. The Great Plaza - Surrounded by impressive architectural remains, this plaza offers stunning views of the Oaxaca Valley below.

  5. Monte Albán Museum - Located at the foot of the archaeological site, the museum houses a vast collection of artifacts found at Monte Albán and provides valuable context for your visit.

Tips for Your Visit

  1. Wear comfortable shoes as both sites involve walking on uneven terrain.
  2. Bring water and sunscreen, especially during the summer months.
  3. Hire a knowledgeable guide to enhance your understanding of these ancient sites.
  4. Respect local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting indigenous communities.
  5. Sample Oaxacan cuisine, such as mole, tlayudas, and mezcal, during your stay.
  6. Visit during the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) to experience a vibrant celebration unique to Oaxaca.

We hope you enjoy your visit to the Historic Centre of Oaxaca City and the Archaeological Site of Monte Albán! This guide is just a starting point; there’s always more to discover in this fascinating region.