Area Guide
There are some many wonderful things to see and enjoy in Oaxaca that visitors return again and again. Museums: Temple and ex-Convent of Santo Domingo founded in the 16th century is magnificent. There is also a botanic garden. Regional Museum and Cultural Center exhibits jewels and archeological artefacts from a tomb in Monte Alban. Museum of Contemporary Art of Oaxaca exhibits works from local and international artists. The Tamayo Museum of Prehispanic Art exhibits pieces from the private collection of Rufino Tamayo, the most famous artist from oaxaca. Pieces from the mayan, olmecan and totonac cultures which hail from 1200 B.C. to the time of the conquest. Home of Benito Juarez where he spent his youth. This indian boy studied law and later became President of Mexico in 1860. Institute of Grafic Arts on the other side of Santo Domingo exhibits works from Rufino Tamayo and Francisco Toledo. Historic Center City: Zocalo or main square is shaded by old laurel trees. On one side iss the Cathedra, on another the Palace of Government( state legislature) and open-air restaurants and cafes. Wandering musicians play and craftsmen exhibit and sell their wares. Macedonio Alcala Theater is the old opera house. Most weeks concerts are performed. Andador Turistico or tourist walk is a green granite avenue for pedestrians to wander between museums, galleries, colonial buildings and restaurants. Archeological Sites: Monte Alban dates from 500 B.C. and was the ancient capital of the zapotecas and one of the first cities in the Americas. In the 10th century the city was conquored by the mixtecas. Mitla. ceremonial center founded by the zapotecas after they left Monte Alban. Yagul was one of the largest ball parks in prehispanic times. Galleries and Shops: Oro de MonteAlban specializes in exquisite reproductions of Prehispanic gold jewelry. La Mano Magica hand woven rugs Casa de las Artesanias de Oaxaca includes the artistic work from 27 indigenous communities. El Mercado 20 de noviembre public market ideal for purchasing typical oaxacan products such as cheese, mole, chocolate, textiles and handcrafts. |
