MITLA - MIXTEC RUINS

Some of the most amazing things to see in Mexico are the ruins, which provide us with a glance into a very important and sometimes difficult past. Take the Mitla, Mixtec Ruins as an example. The name Mitla comes from the word Mictlan, a Nahuatl word that translates to "Place of the Dead." Now, the ruins are also called Lyobaa in the Zapotecan language, which translates to "Burial Place."

The Mitla Ruins are indeed a location with tombs of ancient priests and kings. Through years of archeological study, it is estimated that the site was inhabited as early as 900 BC. However, the current ruins and structures date between 200 and 900 AD. As you travel about the ruins, you will discover many different and unique structures.

For example, the city itself corresponds with the peak of Zapotecan rule over Monte Alban from 500 BC to 800 AD, although there was tremendous growth from 750 to 1521 AD at which time the Zapotecan rule ended. Because of this, you will see some ruins that are very ornate and detailed while others have a more rustic, ancient appearance.

In the late 1500s, a Spanish explorer by the name of Canseco came to this region and stated that the interior chamber of the Hall of Columns was the home of the High Priest. In fact, Father Burgoa who was a Spanish Chronicler added to that saying that Mitla was also the residence of the Zapotec High Priest. This man was so incredibly powerful that legend tells us even King Zaashila bowed to his commands. Burgoa also stated that the High Priest rules from a jaguar covered thrown.

This ancient city was originally comprised of five primary palaces. One of these palaces was for the Zapotecan High Priest, one for the secondary priests, one for the military officers, and then one maintained for the king along with his entourage whenever they were in Monte Alban. As you can imagine, the Mitla - Mixtec Ruins were quite impressive in the time and today, you can experience what is left.

To get to the Mitla - Mixtec, you would take the famous Pan American Highway. The great thing about this route is that along the way, you pass a number of interesting archaeological sites, along with craft villages and markets. In addition, you can stop to visit the church at Tlacochahuaya, Teotitlan del Valle, which is a weaver's village, the Dominican chapel, and other ruins that include Yagul, Dainzu, and Lambityeco.

You will even have the opportunity the El Tule, which is a massive and ancient cypress tree. The reason the El Tule so incredible is that it is 2,000 years old. This particular tree is in the town of Santa Maria del Tule, which is located just outside Oaxaca where it stands in a churchyard.

As you plan your trip to the Mitla - Mixtec Ruins, try to plan your trip so you can take in some of these amazing sites. You will really enjoy the visit and learn many things about the people of this era.