Reasons Why You Should Visit Oaxaca
One of Mexico’s most mesmerizing states, Oaxaca is a feast for the senses. If you aren’t convinced already about why you should go, here are 10 things you won’t want to miss.
Mezcal
Although Oaxaca is not the only state where mezcal is made in Mexico, we must admit that Oaxaca produces some of the country’s best. While in the city, it is a must to try a tasting, especially to see and taste the difference between mezcal and tequila, it’s more famous cousin.
Tlayudas
One of the most famous Oaxaca foods, the tlayuda is made with a large, flat tortilla that has been left out to dry, then re-fried to achieve the perfect amount of crunchiness. It is topped with refried beans, cheese, and salsa, and can include lettuce, meats, fresh tomatoes, and more.
Mole, Chocolate, Quesillo, oh my!
Oaxaca is the land of seven moles. We recommend trying them all until you find your favorite!
Chocolate is another thing you should try, but in liquid form. Hot chocolate in Oaxaca comes with cinnamon, almond, chili, and other secret ingredients all blended to perfection. Don’t forget to try it with pan de yema.
String cheese holds a different meaning in Oaxaca, as you’ll find the most famous cheese rolled into giant balls for sale at the local markets. Eat it in quesadillas with squash blossoms, melted inside of a milanesa torta, or just eat it plain like we do :)
Monte Albán
Founded in 500 BC, Monte Albán was one of the most important Mesoamerican cities of its era. The city’s population navigated to Teotihuacan by stars alone in order to trade jade and other precious stones. Today, the city’s ruins are covered by beautiful green rolling grass and hills, covering what was once a multitude of homes and ceremonial centers.
Mitla
The ancient ruins of Mitla are the second-most important archeological site in the state of Oaxaca. It is known for it’s mosaic features and religious importance to the people and history.
Architecture
Oaxaca has breathtaking architecture at every corner, as well as beautiful murals that have been added throughout the years by local artists. One of the most impressive is the Santa Domingo de Guzmán temple built in 1570, as well as the main Cathedral built in 1733.
Hierve el Agua
Imagine waterfalls that appear frozen in time, with natural mineral pools sitting on top, which are said to have healing powers. The waterfalls are actually rock formations caused by fresh water springs with high concentrations of calcium carbonate and other minerals.
Teotitlán del Valle
The Zapotec community of Teotitlán del Valle is world-famous for production of colorful weavings. Using natural dyes and traditional dying methods, we take a deeper look into how one family has been creating beautiful pieces for generations and generations.
Alebrijes
Known throughout the world for their distinctive dot patterns, the electric-colored Oaxacan carvings depict mainly animals, both real and fantasy. Most arts and crafts shops in Oaxaca will have carvings for sale, but for a real taste of the tradition head out to a local workshop and see the craftsmen who create these beauties perform their work up close and personal.
Markets
Imagine overwhelming displays of regional fruits, veggies, cheeses, chilis, and meats. Farmers come to Oaxaca Centro from some of the most rural areas to sell their products, with the largest market being Tlacolula, only one hour from the city center.
Group picture in front of Jacobo & Maria’s alebrije taller.