Mitla
Central-South Mexico Region
Mitla is the second most important archaeological site in Oaxaca, Mexico, after Monte Albán, and serves as a significant religious center of the Zapotec culture. Located in the Tlacolula Valley at an elevation of 1,480 meters, Mitla was established as a sacred burial place and gateway between the living and the dead. The site is renowned for its unique and elaborate mosaic fretwork, consisting of finely cut and polished stone pieces assembled without mortar, which decorate tombs, panels, friezes, and walls. Mitla's architecture reflects a blend of Zapotec and later Mixtec influences, with monumental palaces and administrative buildings featuring geometric designs and large monolithic columns. The site flourished between 750 and 1521 CE, reaching its height as a religious hub after Monte Albán's decline. Spanish conquest led to the destruction and repurposing of many structures, including the construction of the 16th-century San Pablo Church atop pre-Hispanic palaces. Today, Mitla offers a remarkable glimpse into Mesoamerican beliefs about death and the afterlife, showcasing sophisticated construction techniques and artistic traditions unique in Mexico.
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Astuce: Visitors should plan to arrive in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended during peak tourist seasons. Discounts may be available for students and seniors. Guided tours provide valuable insights into the site's complex history and symbolism. Comfortable walking shoes and sun protection are advisable due to the outdoor nature of the site.
Faits intéressants
- •Mitla's name derives from the Nahuatl word 'Mictlán', meaning 'place of the dead' or 'underworld'.
- •The site is unique in Mexico for its intricate mosaic fretwork made from small stone pieces fitted without mortar.
- •Mitla was considered a gateway between the world of the living and the dead in Zapotec belief.
- •The Spanish built the San Pablo Church atop pre-Hispanic palaces, reusing materials from destroyed Zapotec buildings.
- •Mitla contains five main architectural groups, including the notable Group of the Columns with its monolithic columns and geometric mosaics.
Histoire
Mitla was inhabited from at least the Classic Period (100-650 CE) and possibly as early as 900 BCE.
Initially a fortified village, it became the main religious center for the Zapotec, later influenced by the Mixtec who controlled the area around 1000 CE.
The city reached its peak between 750 and 1521 CE, serving as a sacred burial site and a gateway to the underworld according to Mesoamerican beliefs.
After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, many structures were dismantled or repurposed, including the building of the San Pablo Church over pre-Hispanic palaces.
Despite destruction, Mitla remains a key site illustrating the religious and cultural practices of the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples.
Guide du lieu
Group of the Columns750-1521 CE
This architectural complex features three patios (D, E, F) arranged from north to south, notable for their large monolithic columns and finely decorated mosaic fretwork facades. The Palace here was a private residence with four rooms, each with a single entrance, surrounded by an exterior patio. The geometric fretwork designs are unique to Mitla and represent the rich Zapotec architectural tradition.
San Pablo Church16th century
Constructed in the 16th century atop the quadrangle C of the archaeological site, this Catholic church was built using materials from dismantled pre-Hispanic palaces. Its monolithic lintels support the structure, symbolizing the imposition of colonial religion over indigenous beliefs.
La Fortaleza
Located west of modern Mitla, this defensive walled site was built by the Zapotec to protect the city from invasions, highlighting the strategic importance of Mitla in regional conflicts.
Contact
Téléphone: 951 568 0316