Mitla
Oaxaca
Steeped in history and mysticism, the ancient burial site of Mitla—which translates as the “Place of the Dead”—dates back to 900 BC. Notable for its mix of Zapotec and Mixtec architecture, adorned with elaborate mosaics and ornate stonework, it’s one of Oaxaca’s most important archaeological sites.
Exploring the ruins of Mitla is best done on a walking tour, and visiting with a guide provides insight into the ancient structures and their architectural details. The small site is easy to navigate, with just five main areas, most notably the Grupo de las Columnas (Columns Group), where highlights include the Patio de Mosaicos (Patio of Mosaics), the Columna de la Vida (Column of Life), and the Sala de las Columnas (Hall of Columns).
Most Mitla tours leave from Oaxaca, and a day trip may also include nearby sights such as the 2000-year-old El Tule tree, the unique Hierve el Agua waterfalls, or the Monte Albán archaeological site.
Mitla is a must for history buffs and those interested in Mexico’s ancient history.
There is an admission fee.
Plan about an hour to explore the archaeological site. It’s also worth visiting the town of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, where highlights include the San Pablo Church and a handicrafts market.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking over uneven grounds, and bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, since there is little shade at the ruins.
Some parts of the site are accessible for travelers using wheelchairs and strollers.
The Mitla archaeological site is in the village of San Pablo Villa de Mitla, about 27 miles (46 kilometers) southeast of Oaxaca. Buses run regularly from Oaxaca to Mitla (about a 1-hour trip), from where it’s about a 0.5-mile (1-kilometer) walk to the ruins.
Site opening hours can vary by season. Make an early start to avoid the crowds—tour buses typically start arriving around 10am.
Just over 1 hour from Mitla, the UNESCO-listed Monte Albán is Oaxaca’s most important archaeological site. Once the capital of the Zapotec civilization, dating back to 500 BC, it lies on a mountaintop plateau with views over the Oaxaca Valley. Visit the sprawling ruins on a guided tour to discover the Grand Plaza, the most memorable viewpoints, and many temples, pyramids, and altars.
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