Archaeological Sites: Zaachila

Description
Zaachila was the last Zapoteca Capital City, soon after the fall of Monte Alban. The site's founding and population dates back to 1100 - 1521 AC. It was about that time when Mixtecos were able to conquer Zaachila until the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. Zaachila was "The House of Zaachila", because of the Zapoteco king's name during Pre-Colombian times: Zaachila Yoo.

The site is comprehended on a sector of the current town of Zaachila, where Pre-Hispanic traditions and manners have remained almost intact up to day. It is possible to appreciate the famous weekly "tianguis" (Something similar to a market), that takes place every Thursday.

The archaeological zone has only been partially explored, thus far. It is composed by an artificial pyramid, that displays several mounds. Mound A is the most outstanding, since it is composed by several chambers and four tombstones. Two of these tombstones are extremely interesting, because of their contents. They are named Tombstone 1 and Tombstone 2.

Tombstone 1
The entrance to this site is decorated with the sculpture of feline heads. Inside, we can find seven figures carved in stucco; six of these sculptures are paired together next to the central platforms. In the entrance chamber, there are figures of owls as well as two seemingly important characters, that are marked with the names Flower 5 and Flower 9. Deep in the end of the place there is yet another character, which is displayed wearing a turtle's shelf and a serpent like hairdo. This tombs are the resting place of 11 different characters. Along with the graves, there were also valuable objects made in ceramics Mixteco style, that belong to the period known as Monte Alban V.

Tombstone 2
It is composed by one single chamber, that is totally undecorated. A very rich offering was found in this site, consisting of jewelry and some other objects made in gold, such as: rings, bezotes, pearls, a repouseè disc and the holder of a swinging fan.

Location
Villa de Zaachila is located 9 miles (15 kilometers) South of the City of Oaxaca via the Xoxo - Cuilapan highway. Approximate travel time: [0:25].

Archaeological Sites

Dainzú	Guiengola	Huamelulpan
Huijazoo	Lambityeco	Mitla
Monte Albán	Nopala	San José el Mogote
Tututepec	Yagul	Yucuita
	Zaachila

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