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Mitla Photography by Bill and Dot Bell
Mitla is the second most important archeological site in the
state of Oaxaca in Mexico, and the most important of the Zapotec
culture. The site is located 44 km from the city of Oaxaca. in
the upper end of the Tlacolula Valley, one of the three that
form the Central Valleys Region of the state. The archeological
site is within the modern municipality of San Pablo Villa de
Mitla. While Monte Albán was most important as the political
center, Mitla was the main religious center.
The name Mitla is derived from the Nahuatl name Mictlán, which was the place of the dead or underworld. Its Zapotec name is Lyobaa, which means “place of rest.” The name Mictlán was Hispanicized to Mitla by the Spanish. However, what makes Mitla unique among Mesoamerican sites is the elaborate and intricate mosaic fretwork and geometric designs that cover tombs, panels, friezes and even entire walls. These mosaics are made with small, finely cut and polished stone pieces which have been fitted together without the use of mortar. No other site in Mexico has this.
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What You Should Consider for Your Visit
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On the Road In - Mexico
editor@ontheroadin.com