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Archaeological site · Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca
Zona Arqueológica de Yagul
A fortified Zapotec city on a hill in the Tlacolula valley, a UNESCO heritage site together with the prehistoric caves of the region, featuring the Palace of Six Courtyards and a large ball court.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Zona Arqueológica de Yagul
Yagul is about 10 km from Teotitlán del Valle, on a rocky hill above the Tlacolula valley, roughly 35 km from Oaxaca. It was a Zapotec city that expanded after the decline of Monte Albán, reaching its peak between 900 and 1500.
At the lower section is the Palace of Six Courtyards, a complex of courtyards surrounded by rooms, and the ball court, one of the largest in Oaxaca, with the typical I-shaped layout of Mesoamerica. There are also tombs decorated with stone mosaics and carved heads.
A stone path climbs to the fortress on the hilltop, from which you can see the entire Tlacolula valley, with agave fields and villages. In the surrounding rocks there are shelters and caves used by hunters thousands of years ago, where remains of the region’s earliest cultivated plants have been found.
For this reason, Yagul is part of the UNESCO Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla heritage site since 2010. The site usually receives few visitors.
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
About 1 to 1½ hours.
Best time
In the morning, before the heat, for the climb to the fortress. Check opening times before you go.
How to get there
It is about 1.5 km off the highway to Mitla, at a signposted turnoff, roughly 35 km from Oaxaca. Access is by car or taxi.
Tip
Climb to the fortress for the valley view; wear closed shoes.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zona Arqueológica de Yagul
What to see in Yagul?
The Palace of Six Courtyards, the ball court and the fortress atop the hill.
Is Yagul a UNESCO heritage site?
Yes, together with the prehistoric caves of Yagul and Mitla, since 2010.
Is Yagul usually crowded?
No, it receives few visitors.