ATZOMPA
8 km, 10 minutes
(Market day: Tuesday)
Located 10 km from the city of Oaxaca, at the skirts of Monte Albán. It is suggested to start the tour in this town by visiting the Casa de las Artesanías, ideal to observe the creation of the beautiful natural clay pieces and green glazed clay.
MONTE ALBÁN
10 km, 15 minutes
Ancient capital of the zapotecas; one of the first cities of Mesoamerica and one of the most populous during its peak. Founded approximately in 500 BC, flourishing until 750 AD. Located in a hill that dominates the Valley of Oaxaca, Monte Albán exercised political, economical and ideological control on other communities of the valley and the mountains that surrounded it. Housed a population of more than 25,000 habitants. Its main buildings: the Gran Plaza, the ball game, the Sistema II, los Danzantes, the “J” Building, the central buildings G.H.I., el Palacio, la Plataforma Sur, el Sistema Siete Venado and the Tumba No. 7. The Gran Plaza is 200 meters long and 200 meters wide, which is why they had to cut some rocky ledges and fill out some holes.
Doctor Alfonso Caso, Mexican archaeologist, was in charge of the first explorations and restorations of the archaeological zones. Based on studies of the architecture of the buildings, tombs, ceramics and jewelry, he determined that the story of Monte Albán should be divided in different epochs as far as social organization, population density and trade activity go.
SAN ANTONIO ARRAZOLA
12 km, 15 minutes
In this place, the ingenuity of the craftsmen is reflected in the size of copal wood, creating a fantastic zoology called “Alebrijes”, that are exhibited and sold in the artisans own houses.
CUILAPAN DE GUERRERO
12 km, 15 minutes.
(Sunday to Monday, from 10:00 to 17:00)
Beautiful architectural complex whose neo-gothic influence is appreciated in the start of the ribbings that hold the cellars of the presbytery. Constructed by the dominicos of the XVI century, the open chapel, the unfinished basilica church and the ex convent stand out. The posterior patio of this convent was the place where General Vicente Guerrero was shot on February 14, 1831.
ZAACHILA
17 km, 25 minutes
(Market day: Thursday)
Last capital of the zapotec empire, allows to appreciate in the tombs of their archaeological zone extraordinary representations of characters such as “Los Señores del Infierno”. The explorations have uncovered two tombs of great interest for their decorations on lintels and walls. In the location some pre-Hispanic traditions and manners are still conserved, which can be enjoyed in the weekly “tianguis” on Thursdays. It is recommended to enjoy the varied gastronomy of Oaxaca in its typical restaurants.
