Almost a year after our first visit to the newly opened Atzompa archaeological site, yesterday, we returned. The beautiful paved road up from Santa María Atzompa (elevation 1,580 meters) now brings one to a parking lot right across from the entrance, making for less of a haul up the hill for those less mobile or challenged by the altitude — at the top it is almost 300 meters above the village below — even we were huffing and puffing.
Atzompa was part of Monte Alban and one of its largest settlements. At the top of the stairs (above), is the largest (45 meters by 22 meters) of the 6 ball courts found among the Monte Alban communities.
Investigations of the Atzompa site first began in 1940 by Jorge R. Acosta, who was part of the Monte Alban Project. However, in 2007 the National Institute of Anthropology and History began formal explorations using a team of architects, archeologists, topographers, and restorers.
Though the path is currently difficult to see, make sure to go around to the left of the building above to see the north quadrant. Informational placards in Spanish and English are now in place throughout the site and most of the facts in this post are taken from them, but, of course, I neglected to take a photo of the placard for the building below!
Residents from the land cooperatives in the surrounding communities have been hired to do much of the field and lab work. Not a bad setting to work…
One can, in the words of The Who, “see for miles and miles and miles and miles and miles…”
Except for the birds, insects, lizards, and workers, we had this spectacular setting to ourselves — I think we only saw 3 other visitors the entire time we were there. Perhaps when the second entrance on the Monte Alban side opens, it will attract more attention. In the meantime, the peace and tranquility are a gift in these chaotic times.
Oaxaca–The Year After has more from yesterday’s visit.
Mexican Peso Converter
View From Casita Colibrí 
Definitely a ‘must see’ on my next trip down there! Thanks for sharing this with us!
Absolutely you should put Atzompa on your ‘must see’ list! The views are even better than Monte Alban.
Atzompa was one of the hike destinations last year, and like you, I think we were the only ones there. It will be interesting to go back and see what, if anything, has changed. Regardless, we will enjoy it!
The hike schedule for this year has been posted – I’m looking forward to new territory!
I remember you went last year and you did a terrific blog post! I’m really going to try to go on a hike or two with the group this year. Are you counting the days?