Oaxaca is a beautiful colonial city located in the southern region of Mexico. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, colorful architecture, and delicious cuisine.
The top things to see and do in Oaxaca:
- Explore the Historic Center: Oaxaca’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it’s easy to see why. The streets are lined with brightly colored colonial buildings, and there are many beautiful churches and plazas to explore. Some of the top sights include the Basilica de la Soledad, the Templo de Santo Domingo, and the Plaza de la Constitución.
- Visit the Markets: Oaxaca is famous for its vibrant markets, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade textiles. Some of the most popular markets include the Mercado de Benito Juárez, the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, and the Mercado de Artesanias.
- Try the Local Cuisine: Oaxaca is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a fusion of indigenous and Spanish flavors. Some of the must-try dishes include tlayudas (large, crispy tortillas filled with toppings), mole (a rich sauce made with chiles and chocolate), and mezcal (a type of tequila made from the agave plant).
- Learn About Indigenous Culture: Oaxaca is home to many indigenous communities, each with their own unique culture and traditions. Some of the top places to learn about indigenous culture include the Zapotec ruins of Monte Alban, the Benito Juarez market in the town of Tlacolula, and the textile workshops in the town of Teotitlan del Valle.
- Enjoy the Arts and Festivals: Oaxaca is a hub for art and culture, and there are many galleries, museums, and festivals to explore. Some of the most famous festivals include the Day of the Dead celebrations in November and the Guelaguetza festival in July.
- Experience the Natural Beauty: Oaxaca is surrounded by stunning natural scenery, including mountains, beaches, and forests. Some of the top natural attractions include the Hierve el Agua rock formations, the El Tule tree (one of the largest trees in the world), and the beaches of Puerto Escondido.
The top artisanal traditions to explore in Oaxaca:
- Alebrijes: Alebrijes are brightly colored wooden sculptures of fantastical creatures, such as dragons, griffins, and other animals. The tradition of making alebrijes originated in Oaxaca in the 1930s, and today, the town of San Martin Tilcajete is known as the “Alebrije Capital of Mexico.” Visitors to Oaxaca can watch artisans create these beautiful sculptures by hand and even try their own hand at painting them.
- Black Pottery: Oaxaca is also famous for its black pottery, which is made using traditional techniques that date back to pre-Columbian times. The pottery is made using local clay and is fired in a kiln with wood, which gives it its distinctive black color. The town of San Bartolo Coyotepec is known for its black pottery, and visitors can watch artisans create bowls, vases, and other objects by hand.
- Textiles: Oaxaca is home to many indigenous communities that have their own unique textile traditions. One of the most famous is the weaving of colorful woolen rugs and blankets in the town of Teotitlan del Valle. Visitors can watch weavers use traditional looms to create these beautiful textiles and even purchase their own to take home.
- Silver Jewelry: Oaxaca is also known for its beautiful silver jewelry, which is often made using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations. The town of Monte Alban is a great place to shop for silver jewelry, where visitors can find a wide range of styles and designs.
The Popular Foods and Beverages from Oaxaca:
- Mole: Oaxaca is known for its rich and flavorful moles, which are complex sauces made with a variety of ingredients including chiles, nuts, seeds, spices, and chocolate. There are many different types of mole, each with its own distinct flavor profile.
- Tlayudas: Often described as a Mexican pizza, tlayudas are large, crispy tortillas that are topped with beans, cheese, meat, and other toppings. They are a popular street food in Oaxaca.
- Mezcal: Made from the agave plant, mezcal is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage that is produced throughout Mexico. Oaxaca is known for producing some of the finest mezcal in the country, with many small-scale producers using traditional methods.
- Chapulines: These are toasted grasshoppers that are often seasoned with salt, lime, and chili powder. While they may seem like a novelty to some, chapulines are a traditional snack in Oaxaca and are enjoyed by many locals.
- Tamales: Tamales are a staple food throughout Mexico, and Oaxaca has its own unique take on this classic dish. Oaxacan tamales are often wrapped in banana leaves and stuffed with ingredients like chicken, pork, or vegetables.
- Chocolate: Oaxaca is known for its high-quality chocolate, which is often used in mole sauces and other dishes. Many chocolate shops in the region offer tours and tastings, allowing visitors to sample some of the best chocolate in Mexico.
- Tejate: This is a traditional drink made from corn, cacao, and the flowers of the rosita de cacao plant. It has a creamy, nutty flavor and is often served cold.
Overall, Oaxaca is a wonderful destination for anyone interested in history, culture, cuisine, and natural beauty. Its unique blend of indigenous and Spanish influences, coupled with its vibrant arts and festival scene, make it a must-visit destination in Mexico.
OpenAI. (2023). Pyramids in Mexico. Reviewed and edited by VivMo Projects, LLC.