Tlacolula de Matamoros

A traditional Zapotec market town famous for its lively Sunday tianguis and mezcal production, serving as a gateway to exploring the Central Valley's indigenous culture. The town's vibrant colors and authentic atmosphere provide a genuine glimpse into Oaxacan life.

Things to do

• Sunday Tianguis Market — Visit the sprawling weekly market that fills the town center every Sunday with vendors selling textiles, crafts, produce, and mezcal from across the valley.
• Mezcal Distillery Tours — Tour local palenques (small-batch mezcal producers) to watch the traditional process from agave roasting to distillation and taste freshly made spirits.
• Ex-Convento de San Jerónimo Tlacolula — Explore the 16th-century colonial church and former convent featuring a striking facade and religious art reflecting Zapotec-Spanish fusion.
• Tlacolula de Matamoros Cemetery — Wander through the town's cemetery to see colorful traditional graves and learn about local Day of the Dead observances.
• Textile Workshops — Visit family-run workshops where artisans weave traditional Zapotec huipiles and other textiles using historic techniques and natural dyes.
• Central Valley Hiking — Take day hikes through the surrounding hills and villages to experience rural Zapotec communities and landscapes.

Food to try

• Tlayudas — Crispy, thin masa bases topped with refried beans, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and your choice of protein—the signature street food of Oaxaca's Central Valley.
• Chapulines — Roasted grasshoppers seasoned with salt, lime, and garlic that are crunchy, protein-rich, and a traditional snack sold at the market.
• Mole Negro Oaxaqueño — A complex, dark mole sauce made with chocolate, chilies, and spices served over chicken—a ceremonial dish found in local restaurants and homes.
• Mezcal Tasting — Sample single-origin mezcals directly from palenques, ranging from smoky joven to aged expressions, often paired with fresh orange and sal de gusano.
• Quesillo — A stringy, fresh white cheese unique to the region, often melted on tlayudas or served simply with a squeeze of lime and hot tortillas.
• Empanadas de Mole — Hand-held pastries filled with shredded chicken and dark mole sauce—a popular snack at the market and street stalls.

Local customs & good to know

• Arrive Early on Sunday — The tianguis is most lively and well-stocked in early morning; arrive by 8 AM to experience peak activity and best selection before crowds peak.
• Learn Basic Zapotec Greetings — Older residents and market vendors appreciate even simple attempts at Zapotec words; Spanish is widely spoken, but the local language reflects deep cultural pride.
• Respect Mezcal Traditions — Mezcal is not just alcohol but a ceremonial drink tied to community and history; accept offerings respectfully and understand it's often shared as a gesture of honor.
• Dress Modestly and Comfortably — Conservative casual clothing is appropriate for this traditional town; wear sturdy walking shoes for cobblestone streets and dusty market areas.