One of the communities in Mexico with the greatest dose of mysticism is in Oaxaca. Paradoxically, the place of the dead is also full of vitality and welcomes its many visitors.
The name Mitla comes from the Náhuatl word Mictlan, meaning “place of the dead”. Zapotec political and religious power was concentrated here once Monte Albán disappeared and continued until the arrival of the Spanish.
It is in Tlacolula Valley, which is in San Pablo Villa de Mitla, 25 miles from the state capital.
Mitla is an archeological zone that has no pyramids. Instead, there are quadrangular patios, halls and tombs decorated with intricate limestone mosaics and fretwork (grecas, in Spanish).
The complex of archeological zones in Mitla is divided into five groups: of Columns, of the Stream, of Adobe, of the Mound and of the Fortress.
Situated in the Group of Columns, the Fretwork Patio features panels decorated with carved stone mosaics that form geometric designs. In the northern and eastern buildings are tombs where priests and Zapotec rulers were buried.
Furthermore, parts of these buildings were adorned with paintings, yet they have, sadly, all but disappeared. Small red fragments, however, can still be seen, leading to the assumption that most of the constructions were painted.
In Mitla, you should also visit San Pablo Apóstol Church. It was built on the site of a Zapotec ceremonial center, from which the material used for it came. Not far from it is the Frissell Museum, a cultural center with a major collection of Zapotec art.
The caves in Yagul contain prehistoric paintings that date thousands of years, while El Diablo Cave harbors the Lord of Mitla. The salt- and mineral-rich water that flows from nearby springs is famous for its whitish color.
Mitla has traditions and customs that you can experience and fiestas like the Bodas de Mitla (Mitla Weddings) and Fandangos Mitleños (Mitlan Fandangos). Such festivities are ideal for trying traditional Oaxacan dishes and some delicious mezcal. Weddings last for days, with rituals that have been preserved for centuries.
Article: mexico.mx
Pic: Shutterstock | mexico.mx