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.
Advertisement
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
In our shop
Bags feeling light?
Coffee table looking bare?
Get your guidebooks, travel goods, even individual chapters, right here.
Hotels & Hostels
Check out all our reviewed and recommended accommodation and book online.
Advertisement