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Cultural
Attractions
Handicrafts
 Popular
art of Oaxaca constitutes one of the main tourist attractions
because of its richness, quality, variety, and prices. The
manifestations and creativeness of its handicraft traditions
are quite varied and are present throughout the state. There
are six thousand mestizo communities and sixteen ethnic groups
here, which include more than fifteen-hundred artisans that,
aided by their artistic talent and imagination, and respect
for traditional mediums and techniques represent a source
of cultural possibilities limited only by their own sensibility.
Their inspiration comes from everyday life, thus, Oaxacan
handicrafts fulfill their mission: producing some items for
practical means, and others for decorative purposes only.
But, both are indivisibly connected to their artisan’s
spirit, creating unique pieces, similar, but never the same.
Oaxacan handicrafts are not mass-produced;
therefore, much time is employed perfecting hand-made products
with patience and mysticism. The variety and beauty of its
handicrafts is richer and more comprehensive than any other
in Mexico is. It includes tannery, leatherwork, tin ware,
pottery, stonework, and jewellery, among others. It is outstanding
for the tourist demand of cotton textiles, wool tapestries,
as well as artifacts made of black clay, which is typical
and representative of Oaxaca.
Archaeological
Sites
The archaeological resources that the State
of Oaxaca has are so plentiful that, to date, the National
Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has discovered
4,000 different archaeological sites. Sites of such overwhelming
beauty have helped paved the way for the origins of Mexican
culture, and remain open for visitors to enjoy. Monte Albán
and Mitla are two sites that have become famous all around
the world, attracting a high number of foreign visitors. Other
sites worth mentioning are: Yagul, Lambiteco and Dainzú.
The origins of the Mixtec and Zapotec cultures
can be traced to the Monte Albán and Mitla archaeological
sites, helping to pave the way for Oaxacan culture. Most of
the symbols and trails found here are almost indecipherable,
including the architectural style of the structures themselves.
Sites were designed to meet the standards of
a much more demanding lifestyle than what we know today. It
has always been amazing how locations for development of human
life and culture were so wisely chosen. These archaeological
sites are definitely 'magical', for the beauty they offer
can reach for your heart once you arrive. Video or photographic
images could never describe this feeling. You have to experience
each the sights, sounds, atmosphere and the thrill of going
back in time in person.
Temples, Churches
and Ex-monasteries
Oaxaca is the point of reunion of vast indigenous
tradition and the no less vast Hispanic culture. United, these
bore fruit in mestizo expressions that endure to this time
in customs,, music and the everyday presence of people and
in constructions conforming the magnificent buildings of New
Spain. They reveal the magnificence of some, and the simplicity
and sobriety of others. Occupying a prominent place are churches
and convents of the City of Oaxaca and Cuilapan in the Central
Valleys, Yanhuitlan, Teposcolula and Coixtlahuaca in the Mixteca,
among others. It is a legacy of Neo-Hispanic greatness, but
also testimony of a new manner of transforming reality and
creating a new culture.
 Oaxacan
landscape invites discovering and exploring the vast solitude
of surrounding valleys, and the serene beauty of convents
of yesteryear, today fortresses of faith. These are places
where the past has maintained all its richness within for
the exploring visitors.
Most of the temples and ex convents were built
with green quarry stone and date from the sixteenth century.
Religious orders established Caminos de la Cruz (Roads of
the Cross) in New Spain to perform their evangelical work.
In this spiritual conquest, the Dominicans had a greater presence
and built their walls over old Ceremonial Centers, supporting
them on huge pre-Hispanic platforms. To this end, they created
a new type of architecture to carry out new challenges as
memorials of the past. Thus, the "Capilla Abierta"
(Open Chapel) originated, a masterpiece of American Architecture.
The contribution of indigenous artisans is
remarkable. They were excellent stone and wood engravers;
excellent jewellers and painters of codices.
In this manner, we receive a unique legacy
laden with beauty and truth. The structures built by indigenous
groups, under the direction of experienced architects who
were undoubtedly monks, implied colossal efforts to create
true jewels of monumental temples and convents. The facades
and retables with their sculptures and paintings bear witness
of the fusion of two great cultures.
Gastronomy
 Oaxaca’s
incredible variety of regional dishes has earned high awards
and recognition among domestic and international gourmets.
In part this is due to the friendly alliance between climate
and tradition: The climate makes it possible to have a year
‘round supply of the quality food products that serve
as the basis of this delicious cuisine; and Oaxacan traditions
help explain the diversity of forms utilized in their preparation.
If you know chilies, then the names of the
seven Oaxacan moles, or chili pastes, give you an idea of
their flavor: Black, red, light red, chichilo, green, yellow,
and the descriptive nickname, mancha manteles, or "the
tablecloth stainer".
Oaxaca is also known for its sweets and regional
appetizers, which can still be found in its marketplaces.
Similarly, its delicious beverages can be accompanied by a
wide assortment of regional breads and pastries, or by themselves
as frappes or the unique thickened rice or corn flour based
drink known as atole.
No matter what your mode of transportation,
coming to Oaxaca means entering a world of extraordinary possibilities
for those with a demanding palate.
Municipal Buildings
We know that Oaxacan culture and traditions
can be traced to pre-Columbian times and that we can still
visit and enjoy many of the architectural accomplishments
of our indigenous ancestors.
 However,
the only first-hand knowledge we have of Indian culture during
the colonial period is to references made by Spanish writers
and missionaries.
Based on these stories, we’re able to
get a good idea of the integration process of the two cultures
and the design and construction of a new world that would
set the standards for correct social and Christian conduct
for the people of Oaxaca.
Shortly following this transitional period,
the provinces acquired certain cultural aspects which, especially
after the nation’s independence, reflected a more unified
vision, such as beautification and improvement projects like
creating parks and gardens, as well as converting certain
government buildings into cultural and recreational centers.
Myths & Legends
Oaxaca’s myths and legends all have one
thing in common; they are historically very popular with inhabitants
of the State. Whether woven of complete fantasy or founded
on some remote, yet real event, these stories often form the
fabric of tradition, which teaches a lesson, is wrapped in
custom, and represents the very essence and purpose of folklore.
In this respect, Oaxaca has a vast repertoire of fantastic
myths and historical legends.
Among the best known are the Zapotec tale of
the birth of fire; the mystical lighting of the Apoala trees
from which the first Mixtecan man and woman emerged; the poetic
legend of Princess Donaji; and the apparitions of the Virgins
of Solitude and Juquila.
In each of these stories we find a series of
suggestive anecdotes, traditions, and legends that range from
epic proportions to simply reminding us of our grandparents'
advice. Whatever the purpose, the narratives are as rich and
varied as they are flavorfully told from one generation to
the next.
Festivities
Heir to 3,000 years of history, today Oaxaca
is a multi-ethnic cultural parade of languages, dances, songs,
clothing styles, and customs. Our identity and values as a
state can probably best be appreciated by observing our traditional
festivals - events filled with a curious blend of mysticism,
celebration, food, and brilliant color.
 In
Oaxaca, it seems like there’s always at least one celebration
going on some- where for something, like each town in the
Central Valley honoring its particular patron saint. On the
Tehuantepec Peninsula they celebrate the popular vigils or
"velas". Other celebrations are The Day of the Dead,
The Night of the Radishes and the incomparable fiestas of
"Los Lunes del Cerro" (the Mondays of the Hill),
where the highlight is La Guelaguetza - the most traditional
Oaxacan festival of them all. La Guelaguetza is a vortex of
music, movement, color, and hospitality, a unique time when
Oaxacans open their hearts and homes to all.
These are some of the festivals that have been
kept alive and are an unforgettable treat for any visitor
to Oaxaca.
Museums
The arrival of the conquistadors and the eventual
advent of modern life as we know it have significantly contributed
to the deterioration of many of the state’s cultural
treasures - almost to the point of extinction. These constructions
were created to satisfy the same needs as those today.
However, now a need exists for rescuing and
safeguarding the historical identity of our people, of rediscovering
our origins, of preserving customs and traditions, and of
consolidating it in one place.
That is what museums were created for. They
are the solution for numerous issues such as how and where
to classify, preserve, and exhibit a people's proud history
and cultural legacy.
A museum is a place for learning, for giving
wings to the imagination. What we see in a museum enriches
our lives and widens our perspective. But, maybe most importantly,
a museum touches that profound need for continuity.
In the city of Oaxaca there are a number of
fine museums. The most outstanding is the Museum of the Cultures
of Oaxaca, which houses valuable pieces of Mixtec and Zapotec
origin. In Mexico City, the Rufino Tamayo Pre-Hispanic Art
Museum displays an extensive collection of archaeological
artifacts from the entire republic.
Prominent Figures
Speaking about history means remembering heroic
acts, myths, and social upheavals experienced by the subject
region until the present time. Especially, the participation
of historical personages that, in various stages, took action
in defense of its people, ideals, customs, and traditions
by which they became part of history and ever present as examples
of perseverance.
Since the pre-Hispanic era, the State of Oaxaca
has distinguished itself for the great personalities it has
produced, and had direct impact on the historical development
of the State and Mexico as a country.
We have, for instance, the most famous Mixteca
King "8 Venado" Garra de Tigre ["8 Deer"
Tiger Paw], who was able to unite the entire Mixteca nation
to reach its maximum splendor. Equally important was the last
Zapotec King, Cocijoeza, of Zaachila.
In 1821, Benito Juárez was born in San
Pablo Guelatao, considered the mastermind of the greatest
Reform ever to take place in Mexico. Then, came José
Vasconcelos, creator of the current educational structure
of our country. We must recognize the important trajectory
of one of the most remarkable Oaxacan painters, Rufino Tamayo.
*
The source of this information is the Oaxaca-Travel
website. We publish this information with the authorization
of Mr. Juan Antonio Ruiz W. producer of the Oaxaca-Travel
website.
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