Monte Albán
The hilltop capital of the Zapotec civilization. A great plaza carved out of the summit, along with pyramids and the 'Dancers' reliefs, overlooks the entire Oaxaca Valley. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Monte Albán was founded around 500 BCE and was one of the earliest cities in Mesoamerica. At its peak, its population reached about 25,000, and it was the political and religious center of the Zapotecs. The site sits on a hilltop about 9 km southwest of Oaxaca city, at roughly 1,940 meters above sea level. The main plaza is about 300 meters long, flanked by the North and South Platforms, a ball court, and the J-shaped building, which resembles an arrowhead and may have been an astronomical observatory. The 'Dancers' carved stone slabs depict captured enemy leaders. Climbing the South Platform gives you views over all three valleys. A small site museum stands at the entrance. Tickets are sold by INAH and cost about 100 pesos, though prices are adjusted each year. Tourist minibuses run round trip from the city center (about 30 minutes), and tickets can be bought at travel agencies in town. Allow 2-3 hours for your visit, and bring a hat, sunscreen and drinking water.
Opening hours
Daily 8:00am–5:00pm (last entry about 4:00pm; check INAH announcements)
Nearby sights
- San Antonio Arrazola
- Atzompa Archaeological Site
- Basilica of Our Lady of Solitude
- Mercado 20 de Noviembre
- Mercado Benito Juárez
- Cerro del Fortín & Guelaguetza Auditorium
- Rufino Tamayo Museum of Pre-Hispanic Art
- Zócalo & Oaxaca Cathedral