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Monte Alban, Oaxaca

4.8

#1 of 174 in Things to do in Oaxaca

Ruin Religious Site Must See

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Looming 400 m (1,300 ft) above the Oaxaca Valley, Monte Alban is the most majestic of the state’s ancient ruins. Translated as the “White Mountain,” the vast pre-Colombian archaeological site shows evidence of a network of dams, canals, pyramids and artificial moulds carved out of the mountain by the Zapotec people from as early as 500 BC. Inhabited over a period of 1,500 years, many of the ancient remnants are considered symbols of a sacred topography, and became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Tread ancient paths past altars, pyramids and 170 known tombs, then wind your way to the great plaza for spectacular 360 degree views of the valleys below. You can plan Oaxaca trip in no time by asking Inspirock to help create your itinerary.

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Monte Alban Reviews

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TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

4,293 reviews

Google

4.8

• By Victor B

  La vista del lugar y las visatas del Valle central, son una maravilla, además de las edificaciones, las aves, los sonidos, las historias.  more »

  The view of the place and the Visat of the central Valley, are wonderful, besides the buildings, the birds, the sounds, the histories.
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• By Weisbear

  This ancient Zapotec site has far more to offer than we expected! Stunning views over Oaxaca and the neighbouring valleys, and a lot of intact temples and complexes! Not a lot of shadow though.. so br...  more »

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Google

• By TStudios

  Eating stones was fun

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• By PuayNee Ho

  A must visit when you visit Oaxaca. Probably 30-45mins drive from Oaxaca centro. There are some steps to climb as you visit the site so do wear proper walking shoes or sneaker but it is definitely suitable for people of all ages to visit. The energy at monte Alban is really good as you are able to see how an ancient civilization was. Also, as the site is high up, it overlooks Oaxaca city and is definitely great for photograph. Spend some time sitting under a tree or at the high ground to soak in the positive vibes

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