They say the state of Oaxaca is the spiritual reflection of Mexico. Color, food, beaches, music, archaeology, hospitality, architecture, history, nature, mountains, culture, handcrafts, paintings, traditions, cantinas... any idea that comes to your mind when you hear the word Mexico, youll find it incredibly intensified in this state, so full of contrasts of any kind and where fiesta seems to have been born.
Besides, in an undoubtedly autochthonous rooted country such as Mexico, Oaxaca was the cradle of the first president of Native American origin (and perhaps the only one) in the whole history of the continent: Benito Juarez.
In the middle of this universe there is beautiful Oaxaca city, at the foothill of legendary Monte Alban, in a fertile creeky area and smooth climate which was always disputed by Zapotecs and Mixtecs, coveted by the Aztecs and very appreciated by the Spaniards, so much that they appointed it the Marquisate of the Valley of Oaxaca, the only one in the Americas. Discover these wonders spending interesting Oaxaca vacations.
Description
The name Oaxaca comes from the Aztec language and it means In the guaje (acacia family tree) forest. Although evidence points at constant settlement of the valley where it is located since 10,000 years ago, the city was founded in 1486 by the Aztecs as a military post in order to subjugate the Zapotecs, and it was founded again by the Spaniards in 1524 under the name of Antequera (place of antiques), with the purpose of administrating of the conquered lands.
After Independence the Aztec name was adopted again and today it is one of the most beautiful and well preserved colonial cities in Mexico, it has archaeological sites, convents dating as early as the 16th century, civil buildings and museums of many sorts; in consequence it was declared Cultural Heritage of the Human Kind by UNESCO. It is also the state capital and the political, cultural and commercial center to a unique area in the world.
Arts and Culture
Sixteen different autochthonous ethnicities meet here, each one with its respective culture and language, with its own flavors, colors and textures giving the city a vibrant folkloric ambience without parallel, thus constituting the main attraction. As a consequence, La Guelaguetza is held yearly in July, this is a colorful cultural trade fiesta where each and every ethnic group participate to celebrate peace and cooperation. One remarkable result of this trade is the bountiful and delicious Oaxacan gastronomy, having acquired International recognition independently from Mexican food altogether. Did you know that in Oaxaca there are 7 types of mole?
Another one of the attractions of this contemporary Babel is the number and quality of the handcrafts and fine arts production. Even before the conquest, local artisans have been famous for their ability and their handcrafts for their quality, beauty and color. As an example there is black pottery from Coyotepec, alebrijes from Arrazola and rugs from Teotitlan.
As if the city were a source of inspiration, hundreds of artists come from all over to Oaxaca in more prolonged stays every time. Many have made their permanent home in this place. Considering the size of the city, the profusion of art galleries is outstanding.
That is why if you think of a wonderful vacation when you think of Mexico, a Oaxaca vacations can surely make it a magic reality.
Fishing Mexico 
