| The state of Oaxaca (pronounced wa-HA-ka in English) is in the southern part of Mexico, west of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec. Oaxaca borders the states of Guerrero to the west, Puebla to the northwest, Veracruz to the north, and Chiapas to the east. To the south Oaxaca fronts the Pacific Ocean. Oaxaca is the fifth largest state in Mexico. Oaxaca is the historic home of the Zapotec and Mixtec peoples. The language in Oaxaca Mexico is made up from over 14 different languages and 90 dialects. Mexican travelers are often amazed that Spanish is not the primary language in Oaxaca. Mexico's most famous leader, President Benito Juárez, came from the Oaxacan village of San Pablo Guelatao. Benito Juarez was the first indigenous president of Mexico. In 1987 UNESCO declared Monte Alban a world heritage site. Climates vary between tropical to dry desert like, with annual temperatures of 82°F (28°C). More than anything else, tradition, folklore, and regional cuisine can be enjoyed throughout Oaxaca. |
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