Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán
Location: Oaxaca Mexico
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán comprises the historic center of the city of Oaxaca, which features a unique blend of Spanish colonial and indigenous architectural styles, and the archaeological site of Monte Albán, which was the capital of the Zapotec civilization and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán include:
History: The city of Oaxaca was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors, but the area had been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years prior to this. Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotec civilization from 500 BC to 750 AD and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán offer a range of family-friendly activities, including:
Fun Fact: Oaxaca is known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes such as mole, tlayudas (a type of large tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and other toppings), and chapulines (roasted grasshoppers).
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the archaeological site of Monte Albán is 85 pesos (approximately $4.50 USD) for Mexican citizens and 242 pesos (approximately $12.50 USD) for foreign visitors. There are additional fees for using cameras or video equipment, as well as for hiring a guide.
How to reach it: The Archaeological Site of Monte Albán are located approximately 6 miles from the city of Oaxaca, and there are several public transportation options available for visitors. Buses and taxis run regularly from the city to the archaeological site, and there are also private tours and transfers available.
There are several public transport options available to Oaxaca:
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available in the city of Oaxaca, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The historic center of the city is a popular place to stay, as it offers easy access to the city's main attractions. There are also a number of eco-lodges and resorts located in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Next Stop: Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca 40kms to the east
Year of Inscription: 1987
Criteria: (i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán comprises the historic center of the city of Oaxaca, which features a unique blend of Spanish colonial and indigenous architectural styles, and the archaeological site of Monte Albán, which was the capital of the Zapotec civilization and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
Prominent Features: Some of the most notable features of the Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán include:
- The Cathedral of Oaxaca, which is a beautiful example of Baroque architecture and was constructed in the 16th century
- The Church of Santo Domingo de Guzmán, which is a stunning example of Baroque and indigenous architectural styles and features an impressive collection of religious art and artifacts
- The Palacio de Gobierno, which is a government building with beautiful murals depicting the history of Oaxaca
- The archaeological site of Monte Albán, which features impressive pyramids, tombs, and temples that date back to the Zapotec civilization
History: The city of Oaxaca was founded in the 16th century by the Spanish conquistadors, but the area had been inhabited by indigenous peoples for thousands of years prior to this. Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotec civilization from 500 BC to 750 AD and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
Family-Friendly Activities: The Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán offer a range of family-friendly activities, including:
- Guided tours of the city and archaeological site, which offer insights into the history and culture of Oaxaca
- Visiting the nearby Hierve el Agua, which is a natural mineral spring with stunning views and natural pools for swimming
- Attending traditional dance and music performances, which take place throughout the city and showcase the local culture and traditions
Fun Fact: Oaxaca is known for its unique cuisine, which includes dishes such as mole, tlayudas (a type of large tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and other toppings), and chapulines (roasted grasshoppers).
Entry Fees: The entry fee for the archaeological site of Monte Albán is 85 pesos (approximately $4.50 USD) for Mexican citizens and 242 pesos (approximately $12.50 USD) for foreign visitors. There are additional fees for using cameras or video equipment, as well as for hiring a guide.
How to reach it: The Archaeological Site of Monte Albán are located approximately 6 miles from the city of Oaxaca, and there are several public transportation options available for visitors. Buses and taxis run regularly from the city to the archaeological site, and there are also private tours and transfers available.
There are several public transport options available to Oaxaca:
- Bus: The most common way to reach Oaxaca is by bus. The city has a large bus terminal that serves destinations throughout Mexico. There are several bus companies that operate services to Oaxaca, including ADO, OCC, and Estrella Roja. Buses are usually modern, comfortable, and air-conditioned. The journey time from Mexico City is around 6-7 hours.
- Airplane: Oaxaca has an international airport, Xoxocotlán International Airport (OAX), which is located about 7 miles south of the city center. Several airlines, including Aeroméxico, Interjet, and Volaris, operate flights to Oaxaca from Mexico City, Guadalajara, and other cities in Mexico.
- Train: Oaxaca does not have a train station, but there are several scenic train journeys that pass through the state. The closest train station is in nearby San Jerónimo Tlacochahuaya, where the Ferrocarril del Istmo de Tehuantepec railway company operates services to other parts of Mexico.
- Shared Taxi: Shared taxis are a common way to travel between towns and cities in Oaxaca. They are usually minivans or pickup trucks that are used to transport passengers along specific routes. They are usually cheaper than private taxis and can be a good option for short trips.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options available in the city of Oaxaca, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The historic center of the city is a popular place to stay, as it offers easy access to the city's main attractions. There are also a number of eco-lodges and resorts located in the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Next Stop: Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca 40kms to the east