Cheap Oaxaca Vacation Packages
The capital and the largest city of the Mexican state of Oaxaca, Oaxaca City is located in the Centro District in the Central Valleys region on the foothills of the Sierra Madre. Surrounded by lush tropical vegetation, Oaxaca is one of the most beautiful cities in Mexico. It is UNESCO World Heritage Site displaying an attractive blend of both Spanish and Indian elements. The name of the city is derived from the original Aztec fortress. In addition to its spectacular architecture, tourists are attracted here to explore city's affluent culture. A highlight of this culture can be seen in Guelaguetza, which is an indigenous festival celebrated in July with a lot of traditional dancing, crafts, costumes, food, and music.
Places of Interest in Oaxaca
Oaxaca Cathedral
Located on the northwest side of the main square of Oaxaca, Oaxaca Cathedral is famous for its sturdy building style having two low towers designed to survive the earthquakes. The original clock was presented to the church by the King of Spain. The mechanism of this clock is completely carved of wood. The interior of this cathedral is also worth exploring because of its neoclassical influences.
Iglesia de Santo Domingo
A Dominican church found in the year 1575, Iglesia de Santo Domingo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Oaxaca. The large church complex is remarkable for the several niches filled with statues along its spectacular Baroque facade. The church walls and ceiling feature a wealth of gilded ornamentation and bright sculptures. Other highlights of the cathedral are its 11 chapels.
Monte Alban
Located just 8 kilometers west of Oaxaca, Monte Alban covers an area of around 40 square kilometers. It has been an important place of worship for 2,500 years. The center of the ruins is possibly the oldest and most impressive Pre-Columbian site in Latin America. Highlights here incorporate the magnificent Grand Square measuring 200 meters wide by 3,300 meters long. Tourist can also visit Monte Alban Ruins Museum located here. This museum boasts jewelry, ceramic figures, sculptures, and displays related to the excavation of the site.
The Rufino Tamayo Museum
Presented to the state by renowned Mexican artist Tamayo, the Rufino Tamayo Museum is located in an old palace just a short walk away from the Zocalo area. Other than displaying archeological items, the affluent collection of Pre-Columbian art is displayed here in form of more than 1000 historical artifacts.
