"MONTE ALBAN -- ANCIEN ..." a Monte Albán Travel Page by mtncorg

Built in five general phases by the local Zapotecs - last stage involving the newercoming Mixtecs - starting between 800 - 400 BC. The mountain top was levelled and room was made for the great pyramid-temples that you find today. Even by 200 BC it was thought to be home to 10000 people. Monte Alban reached its peak in the years between 300-700 AD when 25000 called Alban 'home'. Society was highly organized and dominated by priests. The site was abandoned between 700-950 AD though some of the tombs were later reused by the Mixtecs between 1100 and 1350 AD.

The hilltop site stand 400 meters above the central Oaxacan valleys, 9 km west of the city of Oaxaca. The ruins, temples, tombs and far-reaching views are amazing. This is a true highlight of Mexico. Many of the treasures that have been found within the buildings atop Monte Alban have been removed to the Centro Cultura Santo Domingo - a former monastery attached to the glorious Iglesia de Santo Domingo in Oaxaca. I heartily recommend visiting this museum before and after touring Monte Alban or the other ancient Oaxacan cities - ie Mitla, Yagul, Dainzu, etc. The exhibits are extensive and very informative.

Atop Monte Alban, there is a smaller museum and a ticket office. You can find official guides for the site at the entrance and find out which tombs may be open. Number 7 and 104 are considered to be the best to visit.