Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca Guide
Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca: A Journey Through Time Guide
The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca, housed in the former Convent of Santo Domingo, offers a fascinating journey through the rich history and diverse cultures of the Oaxaca region. From pre-Hispanic civilizations to colonial times and beyond, the museum showcases a remarkable collection of artifacts, art, and historical documents. It's an essential stop for anyone seeking to understand the cultural heritage of Oaxaca. The Convent of Santo Domingo, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, was built by the Dominican order starting in the late 16th century. It served as a religious and educational center for centuries. After the Reform Laws in the 19th century, the convent was secularized and eventually converted into a museum. The building itself is a significant historical artifact, with its ornate facade, stunning interior courtyards, and beautifully restored frescoes. Visitors can explore the museum's numerous galleries, which display artifacts from the Zapotec, Mixtec, and other indigenous cultures of Oaxaca. Highlights include the treasures recovered from Tomb 7 at Monte Albán, a collection of gold jewelry, jade ornaments, and other precious objects. The museum also features exhibits on colonial art, traditional crafts, and contemporary Oaxacan culture. Guided tours are available in English and Spanish.
Transportation
The Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca is located in the historic center of Oaxaca City and is easily accessible on foot. Many local buses also stop nearby. Look for buses that travel along Calle Macedonio Alcalá.