It is funny to think about the ideas we have about a place we have never been to. Countries or cities that we recognize from their name or location but that we do not know much about. We create an idea based on a word, image, or memory that we link to an unknown place.
When I was young and lived in Monterrey, the only thing I knew about Oaxaca was that it was located very far south and that wild jaguars lived there. I created an image that wasn't that inaccurate but a bit exaggerated. I visited this summer and obviously I did not find a wild jaguar in the middle of the city. it was different than what I imagined but I loved it.
With a great variety of culture, art, and gastronomy Oaxaca de Juarez is the capital of the state of Oaxaca in México. For all types of tourists this city is a must see. The visible fusion between the pre-Columbian and colonial era is so rich in history that it traps you and amazes you more and more as you get to know it. It is home to two important cultures, the Mixtecs and Zapotecs. After the Spanish conquest it became one of the riches cities of the New Spain, leading an incorporation between the indigenous and spanish gastronomy, handcrafts, and traditional dances. This state is known for keeping pre-Columbian roots alive, for example a big part of the population dominate different indigenous languages such as the Mixtec.
Mitla
Mitla
Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
It really is an enchanting place, don´t doubt on visiting Oaxaca if you have the chance. You will not only find yourself surrounded by pre-hispanic ruins and colonial churches but also with unique markets, restaurants, and art galleries. Soon I will share with you more about what I did in this beautiful city.
-Greta