Mitla : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

If you’ve ever wanted to step back in history and explore a rich cultural landscape that has remained virtually unchanged for hundreds of years, then Mitla in Oaxaca, Mexico, is the perfect destination for you. A striking archaeological site, the ruins of Mitla display an extraordinary combination of Zapotec and Mixtec culture, a mix of pre-Columbian and Christian influences that have blended together to form a unique and awe-inspiring vision. With dramatic and detailed mural carvings, remarkable pyramids, and stone passageways, the archaeological site of Mitla has been a hidden gem among archaeological aficionados for years. In this blog, you’ll discover the fascinating history of Mitla, uncover some of the secrets of the site, learn about the unique artistry of Mitla’s stone carvings, explore the many interesting attractions in the town of Mitla, and even find tips and info on the best places to visit in Oaxaca. So let’s get started on this journey to explore the wonders of Mitla – fascinating facts, great information, and the best travel guide – all here for you to enjoy!

Interesting Facts About Mitla

1. Mitla is renowned for its unique and intricate stone carvings, which are believed to represent the faces of the ancient gods of the Zapotecs.

2. Mitla is one of the few pre-Hispanic structures left standing after the Spanish Conquest of Mexico in 1521, and is known as the ‘City of the Dead’.

3. Its name derives from Nahuatl term ‘Mictlan’, which means ‘Land of the Dead’.

4. This architectural site is one of the oldest and best preserved archaeological sites in Oaxaca.

5. Mitla is a piece of living history, as many of the structures still in use today were constructed from the pre-Hispanic era.

6. It is one of the most important ceremonial sites for the Zapotec culture.

7. The name Mitla derived from Nahuatl and it means “Place of the Dead” or “Entrance to Mictlan”.

8. Mitla features an intricate mosaic wall decoration, which makes it look like knitted fabrics, and it is one of its most striking features.

9. It is believed that at least 12 cities occupied the Mitla area before 1521.

10. In 1994, Mitla was declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

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History & Information About Mitla

Mitla is an ancient city in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. Located in the east-central region of the state, the city of Mitla was the most important city-state in the area during the Zapotec civilization.

Historically, Mitla was a trading and religious center, as well as the political capital of the extensive Zapotec Empire. The Zapotecs are thought to have arrived in the region around 600 BC and Mitla is believed to have been settled by 500 BC. The archaeological remains of the city consist of elaborately decorated archaeological sites, ranging from residential and ceremonial structures to elaborate public works of art such as a large palace, streets and monuments.

The most distinctive features of Mitla are its geometrically designed structures, including the Judería, the two courtyards, and the Maguey. The Judería is the most elaborate structure, and its intricate mosaics, created around 600-700 AD, are unique and regarded as among the most important monuments in the region. The mosaics have intricate patterns, illusions, and textures created from the use of local stone and other materials.

Mitla is renowned for its distinctive crafts, including jewelry-making, weaving, and embroidery. Its traditional dress is characterized by bright, contrasting colors, large ponchos, and a variety of head coverings. The city is also known for its local cuisine.

Mitla is considered sacred by Native American tribes, as well as by other peoples in Mexico. The city has become a pilgrimage site, and it has been a traditionally important place of worship for many generations. In recent years, it has become a tourist attraction due to its unique archaeological sites, rich history, and traditional crafts.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Mitla

Mitla is a small town located in the southeastern Mexican state of Oaxaca. The town is famous for its pre-Columbian archaeological site and its nearby large market, making it a popular destination for international tourists. Here is a travel guide for your visit to Mitla.

Getting There:

The closest international airport to Mitla is the Oaxaca International Airport. You can fly directly into Oaxaca from many major U.S. cities, such as Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston. You can also take advantage of regional flights from Mexico City, which are typically cheaper. Once you land in the Oaxaca International Airport, you’ll need to take a taxi or bus to Mitla.

Where to Stay:

Mitla has a few small hotels and guesthouses to choose from. We recommend staying in the Hotel El Castellano because of its central location, comfortable rooms, and great price. Other popular lodging options include El Sol B&B and Hotel Mystic Inn.

Things to See & Do:

The main attraction in town is, of course, the Mitla archaeological site. This site houses some of the best-preserved Zapotec ruins in all of Mexico, and you’ll get a chance to explore its temples, stairways, courtyards, and tunnels. After you’ve visited Mitla, make sure to stop by La Mixteca market, where you’ll find a great selection of local crafts, food, and souvenirs. You can also enjoy a number of activities like horseback riding, biking, and bird watching in the nearby Zapotec jungle.

Food & drink:

You’ll find some great restaurants in Mitla, such as El Palacio for traditional local dishes or La Crepe for a sweet treat. When it comes to drinking, we recommend heading to one of the local cantinas for a traditional mezcal or cerveza. There are also a few bars in town where you can listen to live music and relax with your friends.

Safety:

Mitla is generally a safe place to visit. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in touristy areas. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or displaying expensive items, and only use legitimate taxi services.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Mitla

1. What is the history of Mitla?

Mitla is a Zapotec archaeological site located in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca. It was an important religious and political center in pre-Columbian times and is believed to have first been settled as early as 500 BC. The Zapotec city-state of Mitla was the most important city in the Valley of Oaxaca until the fall of the Zapotec civilization around the 8th century CE.

2. What is there to do in Mitla?

There are many things to see and do in the city of Mitla. Visitors can take a tour of the archaeological site and explore the ancient ruins of this once thriving city-state. You can also visit the ancient church at the centre of the town, built over a pre-existing Zapotec religious complex, and browse local shops in the city centre. Additionally, the nearby villages of San Lorenzo Albarradas and San Miguel del Valle, both of which have some archaeological sites of their own, are often visited by those who come to explore Mitla.

3. How do I get to Mitla?

The city of Mitla is located in the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca and can be reached by bus. There are regular departures from most of the major cities in Oaxaca. You can also rent a car and drive to Mitla, or you can use ride-hailing services such as Uber and Cabify to get to the city.

4. What is the best time to visit Mitla?

The best time to visit Mitla is during the dry season, which lasts from mid-November to mid-May. During this time, the city is usually quite dry and temperatures are comfortable. However, it’s important to keep in mind that temperatures can drop significantly during the night. Therefore, if you plan on visiting during the dry season, it’s recommended to bring warm clothing for the evenings.

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