Archaeological Sites: Nopala

Description
In Chatino, the name is "Bya" (Hill of Nopals). The current name is in Nahuatl, derived from the word "Nopatlan" (Mountain or Hill of Nopals). It has derived to Nopala since.

Santos Reyes Nopala was populated in 800 AD approximately, although it is believed it reached its peak between 500 - 700 AC.

The Municipal Palace is considered to be one of the most beautiful sites in all of this region. The walls portray some of the most remarkable archaeological pieces that were sculpted by the Chatino culture (Classical period 500 - 700 AC). These pieces were found some time ago, in the borders of the village, close to Tutepec, the most important Mixteco Lordship of its time, ruled by famous Mixteco king "8 Deer Tiger Claw".

These works are monolithic pieces of humans, that representseveralimportant Pre-Hispanic characters. The sloped pieces, seem to indicate the riches of the garment these people wore: exotic hairdos, earmuffs, necklaces and canes. These pieces of work are displayed along the Municipal Palace's walls.

Location
The site is located 32.31 miles northeast of Puerto Escondido, on Federal Highway 125 headed for San Gabriel Mixtepec. Take a left on an unpaved road, which is 7.46 miles, until you reach the town. Estimated traveling time: 1 hr.

Archaeological Sites

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

Back to the Top