About the city of Oaxaca in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico

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Photograph taken by Luis Mata. Nikon D3300
Oaxaca is the state capital and was declared a Humanity’s Cultural Patrimony by UNICEF. Oaxaca is internationally known for it’s vibrant colors, mole, chocolate, vibrant culture including it’s colonial structures and Mayan ruins. Oaxaca is the 5th largest state in Mexico and has the largest number of indigenous speaking people in Mexico more than any other state. 

A brief history of Oaxaca

The Aztec settlement was called Huaxyacac which means “In the Nose of the Squash”,  from which the word Oaxaca was derived. The Spanish laid out a new town around the existing town of Zocalo in 1529. This new town quickly became one of the most important places in Mexico and still one of the most touristed places.  

In the mid 18th century the Oaxaca economy flourished because of exports of cochineal and weaving of textiles. By 1796 the city had grown to approximately 20,000 people and was considered the third largest city of Nueva  Espana (the "New Spain"). An earthquake that occured in 1854 destroyed much of the city. It took several decades before the city began to grow again and by the 1890’s the population passed 30,000 people. Then again 1931 another earthquake hit the city which left approximately 70% of the city uninhabitable.  

Much of the major population expansion of Oaxaca has happened in the last 25 years. Tourism, new businesses and rural poverty all encouraged migration from the countryside. The population of the city has grown tremendously and now has a population of approximately 450,000 people including the nearby towns.

Oaxaca tourism industry

The  layout of Oaxaca city follows the traditional colonial town plan with it’s main  square surrounded by the cathedral and government buildings. Many of the  colonial era buildings from the 16th century have been restored and are used for galleries, museums, hotels and restaurants.

There is not shortage of things to do while you are in Oaxaca. In fact, just exploring the city which is known as a  world heritage city is an experience of its own, and walking the historic center is a must do on your checklist. Since the 16th century, Oaxaca’s Historical Center has been well preserved from it’s original layout that is identical to a chess board. 

While you are exploring Oaxaca you can taste the tlayudas which are tortillas prepared with cheese, but not quite a quesadilla. The pedestrian friendly walk along the Constitution Square allows you to take it in while enjoying the local taste of the coffee (Coffee is a major product of Oaxaca) or a champurrado which is a drink prepared with tortilla dough. Don't forget to look up because you will see a lot of historical colonial architecture like the arches that frame the Constitution Square and have been there since 1529. Nearby you can visit "Monte Alban" archaeological site, the Church of Santa Domingo decorodated in real and painted gold, the Minor Bascilla of Our Lady of Loneliness, the main Cathedral of the city, and the Ethno-Botanical Garden. 
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Photograph taken by Luis Mata. Nikkon D3300
Another stop to make is at the Oaxaca textile museum. At the textile museum you will learn about the rich textile traditions that are a big part of the Oaxacan culture. The museum offers classes, conferences and exhibits. When you step through the door of this museum you will be caught up in the vivid colors instantly, dynamic textures, beautiful patters and the different forms that textiles can take. Dont forget a little shopping money because this is a must on your to do list while visiting this beautiful city. Oaxaca is well known for producing two of the most sought after items around which are black clay pottery (unique to Mexico and this specific city) and colorful hand painted animal carvings with amazing amount of detail. Black clay is a traditional Zapotec method of making pottery, where the clay is molded and spun by hand without the use of modern tools and then finally polished. A favorite Mexican form of folk art are the small animal figurines that are hand carved from the wood of the copal tree. After this they are hand painted with paints that are often made from natural dyes such as pomegranates and huitlacoche. The people who make these figurines transform the world of  imaginary into reality.  When you see it you will know what is being described here.  
Every  day is special in Oaxaca city and the town is know as having a “never ending fiesta” (a never ending party). Whether there are private events such as weddings, baptisms or birthday parties going on or the feast day of a patron saint or one of the major holidays, there are always reasons to celebrate throughout the year. The city opens it’s hearts to visitors and welcomes the tourists to join in on the fun and celebrate either someone's life, death or their accomplishments. There are many things that go into these celebrations you will want to be sure to participate in at least one while on your trip.
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When you are looking for a place to stay in Oaxaca, accommodations are available  everywhere. You can stay in luxury hotels, bargain priced hostels and hotels in historic colonial buildings, options are unlimited but don't wait because this town fills with hundreds and sometimes thousands of tourist at moments notice so they fill fast. There are also many mid to low range hotels and bed and breakfasts in the area that are charming and of great value. There are places that will raise their rates for peak season like the end of year holidays, spring break, day of the dead, etc. so be sure to look for this. If you are looking for something that feels more like home then look for an apartment to rent for the week, a house or guesthouse.

Travel information when traveling to Oaxaca

Suggested Airport: Oaxaca International Airport
Address: Carretera Oaxaca-Puerto Angel Km 7.5, 68000 Oaxaca, Oax., Mexico
Local phone number: + 52 951 511 5088

Is a passport or travel visa required? This depends on your nationality and your country of origin. We recommend that you check with your travel agent or Mexican Consulate in your area to know what documents you need to travel to Oaxaca.
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