Monte Albán In Oaxaca, Mexico

What Are The Monte Albán Ruins?

The Monte Albán Ruins, sometimes also called Danipaguache, are an archeological site in Oaxaca, Mexico. They sit in the state’s central valley, resting between the Sierra Madre Oriental and the Sierra Madre del Sur.

The ruins are vast, encompassing 1200 monuments, carved sacred topography visible from the air, and, despite Aztec influence, a clearly unique, cultural style of hieroglyphics and artful bas-relief sculpture.

Discover Monte Albán’s Ancient, Storied History

Monte Albán was first created by the Zapotec Civilization in approximately 500 B.C. The ruins were subsequently inhabited by the Olmecs, Mixtecs, and a different group of Zapotecs over the next 1500 years.

Some buried structures, like the ancient civic ceremony center, have only been partially excavated.

Where Is Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán In Oaxaca?

The exact location of Zona Arqueológica de Monte Albán is Ignacio Bernal S/N, 71233 San Pedro Ixtlahuaca, Oax., Mexico.

In general terms, it rests in the Valley of Oaxaca in Oaxaca, Mexico.

Its coordinates are 17°2′38″N 96°46′4″W / 17.04389°N 96.76778°W / 17.04389.

How To Get To and From Monte Albán Safely

If you want to travel independently, it’s not too challenging to get a reputable taxi or designated tour shuttle to take you from Centro Historico in Oaxaca City to Monte Albán safely.

Of the two, the shuttle is wiser. If you have a bit more cash to spend, hiring a private car is worthwhile.

Alternately, professional tour groups not only offer the benefit of safety (both in numbers and through guides’ insights) but also the wisdom of greater context and history, which can draw nuanced inspirations from the experience.

The Best Sites To Experience On a Monte Albán Tour

There are several extraordinary sites to explore on a Monte Albán tour. Its cultural and historical impact is so significant that it has been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987. Here are just a few highlights you won’t want to miss.

Main Plaza (Plaza Central)

The Main Plaza is a central square, once a hub of all civil and community activity, particularly ceremonial. The original construction of the plaza’s three reconstructed temples happened in distinct periods over the course of 700 years. Standing in the main plaza offers a sense of history vaster and stranger than you’d usually feel at home.

The North Platform (Plataforma Norte)

The Northern Platform is known for art and artifacts in the Teotihuacan style. These reveal a possible diplomatic or political alliance between the two civilizations.

Notable elements in Platforms Norte include:

  • An obelisk-like stela detailed on all sides with figures in ceremonial dress
  • A semi-submerged patio and alters for private rituals among the elite.
  • A “jeweled building,” partially sunken and absorbed with obsidian, mica, and dramatic staircases
  • Two pillars depicting a sculpture of the Wide-Beaked Bird deity

Building of the Dancers (Edificio de los Danzantes)

Edificio de los Danzantes is a building initially built by Zapotecs in 500 B.C., then partially built over and layered alongside structures created 400 years later by Olmecs or their descendants.

The elaborate carved mural-like images depict dance, war, and sacrifice of conquered enemies. Olmec-influenced depictions of faces and disembowelment are particularly memorable.

Astronomical Observatory (Edificio J)

For many, the ancient observatory, sometimes called “Structure J,” is the most visually iconic building on the entire site. Its shape is a pentagon, and it isn’t aligned with the other structures. Instead, it seems to “point” North.

Edificio J is suitably mysterious and alluring.

South Platform

The South Platform is one of the newer structures, potentially built as recently as 800 A.D. It’s known for its elaborate depictions of 22 Jaguars and inscriptions honoring the sitting rulers, as well as a royal staircase upward to two, separate small ritual pyramids.

Enjoy Monte Alban With Caravan

If you want to experience the mystery and awe of deep time in the Monte Albán Ruins, consider joining one of Caravan’s Tours of Mexico’s Ancient Civilizations.

But don’t procrastinate! Spots on our all-inclusive package trips are first come, first served.

Don’t let the vacation of a lifetime pass you by. Call our agents toll-free at 1-800-227-2826 to book your spot. Or, learn more by calling our information team at +1-312-321-9800.

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