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Plaza and cathedral · Oaxaca, Oaxaca
Zócalo y Catedral de Oaxaca
Oaxaca's main square, tree-lined and surrounded by arcades, with the bandstand, the old Government Palace and the Cathedral of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción, built of green stone.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Zócalo y Catedral de Oaxaca
The Zócalo is Oaxaca’s main square, shaded by large laurel trees and surrounded by arcades with cafés and restaurants. In the center is a bandstand from the early 20th century, where bands often play. Beside it, the Alameda de León forms a second square in front of the cathedral.
The cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption was begun in the 16th century and rebuilt several times after earthquakes. It has a green stone Baroque façade with reliefs of the Assumption of the Virgin, and an interior more sober than Santo Domingo’s.
On the south side of the square is the old Government Palace, which houses a museum with murals about the history of Oaxaca. Nearby streets contain the Benito Juárez and 20 de Novembro markets, known for their food and a corridor of grilled meats.
In the late afternoon the square fills with families, balloon and craft vendors, and it is the city’s meeting point during festivals.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1 to 2 hours.
Best time
In the late afternoon and evening, when the square is livelier. Mornings are quieter for entering the cathedral.
How to get there
It is in Oaxaca’s historic center, at the end of the Macedonio Alcalá promenade. You can get there on foot.
Tip
Sit at one of the cafés in the arcades to watch the activity. The markets are about two blocks to the south.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zócalo y Catedral de Oaxaca
What is around the Zócalo of Oaxaca?
The cathedral, the Alameda de León, the old Government Palace and the arcades with cafés.
The Oaxaca cathedral dates from what period?
It was begun in the 16th century and rebuilt after earthquakes, featuring a green stone Baroque façade.
Are the markets near the Zócalo?
Yes, Benito Juárez and 20 de Novembro are about two blocks to the south.