Inquisitive Spirit

Oaxaca is a state full of history – and the cool thing is that a lot of the archeological sites are very close to Oaxaca City, making it very easy to explore…..

Monte Albán

An important Zapateca site, Monte Albán is is very impressive, both visually and energetically.

There are several large pyramids and altars with a big empty field lying between the well-preserved ruins. While walking over the seemingly bare stretch of land, I got the feeling that there was movement all around me – and below me. I realized that Monte Albán is like a giant ant hill. We were walking on the surface enjoying the sights around us, but underneath lies a labyrinth of tunnels. I had the sensation that there were still some Zapateca guys running around down there… This feeling was reinforced when I came upon an entrance – to nowhere – or maybe to the underworld… There are old worn stone steps leading down into the ground…. I am sure they are still being used, albeit by spirits.

The ruins are situated on top of a dry grass covered mountain close to Oaxaca City.

Several tombs were discovered there, and the treasures of the richest one are displayed in the downtown museum. Gold, gold and more gold!

Intricate jewelry with jade and turquoise – and hand carved crystal goblets! Imagine the excitement of the archaeologist when he unearthed this find!

On an adjoining mountain, excavation is underway and this site will soon be ready for visitors as well! New wonders to behold…

Cuilapan de Guerrero

Cuilapan is the site of a 500 year old church and monastery.

It is like a fortress – very old – very interesting. The color of the stones, the strength of the huge pillars, the ornate facades speak of the appreciation the Spaniards had for beauty.

The afternoon that we visited this ancient church, they were holding a mass in the chapel. I wondered how similar it was to the ones they held 5 centuries ago…

Mitla

Mitla is an ancient ceremonial site unique for its GREEK designs.

It was pretty strange being in the heart of Mexico looking at the Greek geometric designs on the ruins.

This site was apparently for the rich people – there were several palaces and everything was very ornate.

The town of Mitla is built around the ruins, so much so in fact that one of the courtyards is wide open for kids to play soccer, drunks can pee, etc.

The Spaniards built a church right on top of some of the ancient buildings.

There are signs explaining this (negatively of course) but the town is now allowing houses to be built over the courtyard of the church…

You can really see the history in the different levels – and the destruction of one culture making room for another.

The more places I visit in Mexico, the more questions I have.

Who were the people that lived here? Where did they come from? Why the links with Greece & Turkey? How? When? Why? Where? What? It is all so confusing. The mystery whets the appetite…. Travelling does not answer questions, it gives you new things to ponder…