Mitla

Mitla is the second most important archaeological site in Oaxaca, Mexico, and the foremost center of the Zapotec culture. Its Nahuatl name Mictlan means "place of the dead," while the Zapotec name Lyobaa means "place of rest". First settled around 900 BC, it became the main religious center as Monte Alban served political functions. Between 900 and 1500 AD, the Mixtec took possession and left their architectural imprint. Mitla is uniquely distinguished by intricate mosaic fretwork of small polished stones fitted without mortar, decorating tombs, panels, and entire walls. Cruciform tombs beneath the buildings held burials of high priests and Zapotec rulers.