Mitla Archeological Zone
Oaxaca de Juárez
"Also known as the Land of the Dead, legend has it that one of its columns inside reveals the time you have left to live. When you hug the column, the space between your hands represents the remaining years of your life."
The Mitla Archaeological Zone is about 46 kilometers southeast of Oaxaca. It’s accessible by either car or private transport. The name comes from the Aztecs, meaning "land of the dead." Today, the site has beautiful mosaics, stunning columns, and well-preserved ruins. Legend says that if you hug a column, the space left between your hands is how long you have left to live.
Hours
Today: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
View Full Schedule
Monday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Tuesday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Wednesday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Thursday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Friday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Saturday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
Sunday: 10:00AM - 4:30PM
From the Blog
Featured in the Gaido Blog
First Solo Trip to Oaxaca: What Actually Makes It Easy
Oaxaca is one of the most welcoming cities for a first solo trip. The historic center is walkable, the food culture draws you to counters next to strangers, and locals meet you more than halfway. Five experiences that work beautifully when you're on your own.
Where to Find Nature and Fresh Air Near Oaxaca City
Ancient Zapotec ruins with geometric mosaics, a family reservoir for pedal boats and picnics, UNESCO-listed Monte Albán at dawn, pine-forest villages in the Sierra Norte, and a crowd-free archaeological site with sunset valley views. Five outdoor escapes within an hour of the Zócalo.
Quick Actions
Want an experience built just for you?
Build a custom tour around this spot
Tell us how you like to travel. We'll design a tour around places like this using our local guides' favorite spots and match you with a guide to lead it.