We were so excited to see this archaeological site, because, unlike Monte Albán, Mitla doesn’t have pyramids. Only palaces, administrative buildings and tombs that still preserve paintings and beautiful carvings. The first settlement registered here dates back to 0-200 a.C!
You’ll fall in love, as we did. Plus, on our way out we met the sweetest and most talented lady that knits amazing dolls in regional costumes.
First thing you ought to know is that Mitla is just an hour away from Oaxaca City. And if you rent a car, on your way back you can make a quick stop in Santiago Matatlán, the land of Mezcal. Tours also make this stop.
[We visited a palenque (where they make mezcal) called Mal de Amor, and it was amazing seeing the whole process behind the drink. And sampling the different varieties, of course! Our favorite was the one extracted from a Cuixe agave– it wasn’t too strong and had citric notes. VERY different from the Espadín agave, which is the most popular one.]About Mitla
- It’s one of the 35 World Heritage Sites in Mexico.
- Mitla means “place for the dead” or “resting place”. Hence all the tombs beneath the buildings.
- When Monte Albán’s empire fell, many Zapotecs moved to Mitla to establish their political and religious center. Until the Spanish came and destroyed everything.
- This beautiful 17th century church was actually built with all the materials that resulted from that destruction. Pieces of murals and carvings can still be seen inside the church walls.
- When standing in the Hall of Columns, don’t hesitate to go inside the small door across the stairs. It will lead to the Palace, Mitla’s most important and exclusive building.
- Isn’t the Palace the most beautiful thing? The pristine conditions of its fretwork is unbelievable (you can see a picture from the inside in our Instagram). Now imagine all the walls covered with colorful murals!
- If you’re not claustrophobic, don’t forget to visit Tombs 1 and 2. You’ll see a hole in the ground with tiny steps and a tiny tunnel. Go in and see the details on the walls. You’re in a 950 a.C tomb!
- This is Mrs. Carmen’s shop, the artist we were telling you about that makes the most beautiful dolls dressed in traditional attires. The shop is in the corridor that leads to the archaeological site, between the church’s gate and the entrance to the ruins.
- We bought a pair of these gorgeous ‘danzantes’. This attire is used in a regional performance called ‘The Dance of the Feather’.
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Useful information
-We’ve pinpointed Mitla and the mezcal palenque on to this map.
-Entrance fee: $65 mxn
-The archaeological site is divided in two. The ticket office and first set of buildings are behind the church.
