Introducing Monte Albán
The ancient Zapotec capital of Monte Albán (516-12-15; admission M$48; 9am-5pm) stands on a flattened hilltop 400m above the valley floor, just a few kilometers west of Oaxaca. It’s one of the most impressive ancient sites in Mexico, with the most spectacular 360-degree views. This strategic position was doubtless one of the reasons why the ancient Zapotecs chose this site for their capital. Its name, Monte Albán, means White Mountain.
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At the entrance to the site are a good museum (explanations in Spanish only), a café and a bookstore. Official guides offer their services outside the ticket office for tours in Spanish, English, French and Italian (around M$200 for a small group). Portions of the site are wheelchair-accessible, via a lift and special walkways. Explanatory signs are in Spanish, English and Zapotec.
Last updated: Feb 17, 2009
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