Historic Centre of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Albán
Mexico ·
Description
Monte Albán floats above Oaxaca's valleys like a Zapotec spaceship. The pre-Hispanic city dominated the region for 1,500 years from its artificial esplanade. Below, colonial Oaxaca dazzles with green quarry stone Baroque churches, bougainvillea patios and markets where chocolate is drunk with foam. Mezcal and moles are religion here.
Why It's a World Heritage Site
Monte Albán was the Zapotec capital and one of Mesoamerica's first cities, with its own writing and calendar. Colonial Oaxaca represents Mexican Baroque at its peak, built upon living indigenous traditions.
UNESCO Criteria
Frequently Asked Questions
For combining a 1,500-year pre-Hispanic capital with exceptional colonial Baroque architecture.
It was inscribed in 1987 under criteria (i), (ii), (iii) and (iv).
Indigenous dance festival in July; one of Mexico's most important.
Green quarry stone is characteristic of Oaxaca; gives its churches a unique tone.
The seven moles, artisanal mezcal, Mayordomo chocolate and chapulines (grasshoppers).