Mitla, located in the southern state of Oaxaca, is an important archaeological site which dates to about 900 BCE. It is renowned for its detailed mosaic fretwork and geometric designs. Initially a religious centre for the Zapotecs, it was later influenced by the Mixtec culture. The site includes tombs and structures with finely crafted stone mosaics, demonstrating advanced craftsmanship.
The archaeological site of Mitla is located in the centre of the town which grew up around the ruins. Close by is the Church of San Pablo which was constructed by the Spanish in the 16th century using much of the material taken from the site.
The Church of San Pablo, also known as the Templo de San Pablo Apóstol is situated within the Mitla archaeological site. Built by Spanish missionaries in 1544 on a pre-Hispanic platform that was part of the ancient Zapotec religious complex. The platform, which now serves as its atrium, symbolises the cultural transition during colonization.
Mitla dates to about 900 BCE, while the remains which are visible today, date from about 200 CE to 900 CE when the Zapotecs controlled the area. In 1000 CE the Mixtecs took control of the site until 1200 CE when the Zapotecs regained it.
Mitla was the second most important ceremonial centre after Monte Alban. After the disappearance of Monte Alban, it became the power centre for the entire valley. Originally known as Mictlan it was shortened by the Spanish to Mitla. Although in the Zapotec language the site was called Lyoboa, which translated means “Resting Place”.
The site consists of five main groups of structures, the Southern Group and Clay Group, which have been classified as ceremonial centres. These are formed by the presence of mounds and central squares. The Creek Group, Columns Group, and Church Group are classified as palaces, comprising of several chambers, set around the square.
The construction method for the buildings above-ground consists of a core made of mud and stone, covered with plaster or well-cut trachyte, which is a type of volcanic rock.
On entry to the site is Quadrangle E, the buildings of which on three of the sides are mostly ruined.
The stones from these buildings were taken for the construction of San Pablo church. On the north side, however, is the façade of the Palace of the Columns.
The palace looking North from the Courtyard with its red painted walls rests on top of a platform with a short flight of steep, high steps providing access to the Hall of Columns.
Around the wall of the building, it is decorated by three separate patterned friezes.
The Hall of Columns and the Palace are part of the same complex but are distinct structures. The Hall of Columns is a specific area within the palace complex, which features six columns that once supported a roof. The palace itself is a large structure that includes various rooms, courtyards, and architectural features, including the Hall of Columns.
The name 'Hall of Columns' comes from the first Spanish explorers who visited the site. Its original name is not known. They are believed to have been a ceremonial or administrative space, possibly used by the elite or priests of the time. Its design reflects the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of the site, with geometric mosaics and fretwork adorning the structures.
The interior measures 120 x 21 feet (37 by 6.4 m) in size and has six monolithic columns of volcanic stone that originally supported a roof covering the entire hall.
The interior contains four small rooms which are arranged around a smaller central patio. Within each room is a stone frieze with one of the rooms having had its roof reconstructed.
A low, narrow passageway leads to the interior of another enclosure. The walls of this chamber are covered with panels of inlaid cut-stone mosaic known as stepped-fret design, whose intricate geometric mosaics are believed to be a representation of the Sky Serpent, and therefore a symbol of the Mesoamerican deity, Quetzalcoatl. The use of this chamber is not known, although it is believed that it was for the final initiation of those who had been trained in magic and healing in the school of Mitla.
In the Patio of Tombs, adjacent to the Hall of Columns, is a 2.8 meter tall column made of volcanic stone which is known as the "Pillar of Death" although this is also sometimes referred to as the Pillar of Life. Its true purpose is not known although legends suggest it played a role in rituals or ceremonies. According to local legend, hugging this Pillar can reveal your fate. It's said that if the pillar feels loose or moves slightly when embraced, it might signify impending death. On the other hand, if it feels firm and steady, it symbolizes life and longevity.
n the Patio of Tombs, adjacent to the Hall of Columns, is a 2.8 meter tall column made of volcanic stone which is known as the "Pillar of Death" although this is also sometimes referred to as the Pillar of Life. Its true purpose is not known although legends suggest it played a role in rituals or ceremonies. According to local legend, hugging this Pillar can reveal your fate. It's said that if the pillar feels loose or moves slightly when embraced, it might signify impending death. On the other hand, if it feels firm and steady, it symbolizes life and longevity.
The site contains a number of tombs which are located in the northern and eastern buildings; it was here that the Zapotec priests and kings were buried.
Visitors are able to descend into the tombs via a staircase.
Their rooms and antechambers are richly decorated with cut stone friezes with the walls being decorated with ornate mosaic panels.
Nearby to Mitla is the town of Santa Maria del Tule whose churchyard contains the Tree of Tule, or Árbol del Tule, which is one of the oldest living things on earth and is estimated to be between 1,200 and 3,000 years old, although it has been suggested it could be even older. It's famous for having the stoutest tree trunk in the world, with a circumference of over 42 meters (137.8 feet) at its base. Zapotec tradition holds that it was planted by a priest of the Aztec wind god Ehecatl.
To see more photographs and take a virtual tour of the site click on the photoshow below.
