Monte Albán

Monte Albán was the capital of the Zapotec civilization, built on a leveled hilltop overlooking the central valleys of Oaxaca. Founded around 500 BC, it is one of the oldest cities of Mesoamerica and remained a major power for over a thousand years, famous for its great plaza, its ball court and the carved figures known as “danzantes”.

Together with the historic center of Oaxaca City, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Don’t confuse it with Mitla, another important Zapotec site in the same state.