They say the state of Oaxaca is the spiritual reflection of Mexico: color, food, beaches, music, archaeology, hospitality, architecture, history, nature, mountains, culture, handcrafts, paintings, traditions and cantinas. Any idea that comes to your mind when you hear the word ''Mexico'', you'll find it incredibly intensified in this state. It is so full of contrasts of all kinds and it also seems to be where fiestas have been born.
In an undoubtedly indigenous country such as Mexico, Oaxaca was the birthplace of the first president of indigenous origin in the whole history of the continent: Benito Juarez.
In the middle of this universe, there is beautiful Oaxaca City, at the foothill of legendary Monte Alban, in a fertile valley and smooth climate, which was always disputed by Zapotecs and Mixtecs, coveted by the Aztecs, and very appreciated by the Spaniards. The interest of the Europeans was so much so that they appointed it the Marquisate of the Valley of Oaxaca, the only one in the Americas. Discover these wonders while on your Oaxaca vacations.
Description
The name ''Oaxaca'' comes from the Aztec which means ''in the forest of guaje'' (a type of tree from the acacia family). Although evidence points that there have been constant settlement of the valley for over 10,000 years, the city was founded in 1486 by the Aztecs as a military post in order to subjugate the Zapotecs. It was founded again by the Spaniards in 1524 under the name of Antequera (place of antiques), with the purpose of administrating the conquered lands.
After the Independence, the Aztec name was adopted again and today it is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved colonial cities in Mexico. It has archaeological sites, convents, civic buildings and museums of many sorts dating back as early as the 16th century. Because of this, it was declared World Cultural Heritage by the UNESCO. It is also the state capital and the political, cultural and commercial center of this very unique area.
Arts and
Culture
Sixteen different local ethnicities meet here, each one with its respective culture and language, with its own flavors, colors and textures, giving the city a vibrant folkloric ambience without parallel, making it the main attraction of the city. La Guelaguetza, which is held yearly in July, is a colorful cultural trade fair, where each and every ethnic group participates to celebrate peace and cooperation. One remarkable result of this trade is the bountiful and delicious Oaxacan gastronomy, having acquired international recognition independently from Mexican food altogether. Did you know that in Oaxaca there are 7 types of mole?
Another one of the attractions of this contemporary Babel is the number and quality of the handcrafts and fine arts production. Even before the conquest, local artisans have been famous for their skill and their high quality handcrafts, beauty and color. An example is the black pottery from Coyotepec, alebrijes from Arrazola and rugs from Teotitlan
As if the city were a source of inspiration, hundreds of artists come from all over to Oaxaca in more prolonged stays every time. Many have made their permanent home in this place. Considering the size of the city, the number of art galleries is incredible.
That is why if you think of a wonderful vacation when you think of Mexico, Oaxaca vacations can surely make it a magic reality.