Mitla, the Place of the Dead

The name Mitla is derived from the Nahuatl name Mictlán, which was the place of the dead or underworld. A ceremonial Zapotec center and residence of the ecclesiastical power, Mitla is one of the architectural wonders of Mexico, it is unique among Mesoamerican sites because the elaborate and intricate mosaic fretwork and geometric designs that cover tombs, panels, and even entire walls. These mosaics are made with small, finely cut and polished stone pieces which have been fitted together without the use of mortar. The site consists of five groups of buildings with a fence of cactus plants surrounding much of it. The five groups of constructions are called the South Group, the Adobe Group, the Arroyo Group, the Columns or Palace Group and the Church or North Group. The first two have been classified as ceremonial centers with central plazas surrounded by mound structures, and the other three have been classified as palaces with rooms surrounding square courtyards. 

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