The Historic Center of Oaxaca sits in the heart of Oaxaca City, in the state of Oaxaca, Mexico. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its streets hold colonial architecture and cultural landmarks that make it one of the most characterful urban areas to explore in the country.
What you will find
The center is built around its churches, plazas and colonial buildings, many of which date back to the 16th century. Walking between them is the simplest way to take it in, and the scale is easy to manage on foot. Expect stone façades, shaded squares and the steady rhythm of a city that has grown around its old core rather than replacing it.
- Churches: numerous religious buildings are spread through the district, each worth a short stop.
- Plazas: open squares where locals and visitors gather, and a good place to rest between sights.
- Colonial buildings: civic and residential architecture from the 16th century onward.
Planning your visit
The historic center is an outdoor area, so it suits a relaxed day of wandering rather than a set itinerary. Allow time to pause in the plazas and to look up at the buildings, since much of the detail is above street level. The center is also a natural base for exploring the rest of Oaxaca City, which lies around it.
For details on the area, you can call +52 951 516 0123. The center is known in some sources as Centro Histórico de Oaxaca, and its address is Centro Histórico, Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico.
