We explored a lot in Oaxaca, including going to a huge market in a nearby village - Mercado de Tlacolula de Matamoros. We saw live turkeys for sale and large piles of chilies. And of course, a Oaxaca specialty - chapulines (fried grasshoppers!). That's one food experience we can live without!
We visited a local artisan village that is famous for their weaving, and stopped at a shop for a demonstration of the craft. Our instructor has been working in the family business since he was 8 years old, and let our kids try their hands at carding the wool and spinning it into yarn. Ian was so impressed that he decided to buy himself some yarn as a souvenir.
We also learned how they make the different colors to dye the yarn, and how they make the various patterns. A small rug can take 2 months, working 8 hours every day! We came away with a pretty blue rug and a new appreciation for the process needed to make it.
We visited "El Arbol del Tule", a 2000 year old cypress tree that claims to be the widest in the world (42 meter circumference). It's located in a cute little village outside of the city.
We lived a short walk from the Santo Domingo Temple and visited one day to see its beautiful painted walls and ceiling. We also went to the Museum of Oaxaca Culture, which is located right next door. The museum is in a former convent, and has amazing architecture and pretty views of the gardens below. Probably the nicest looking museum I've been in! We really enjoyed strolling the hallways and seeing the interesting displays.
After the museum, we fed the birds and ate some yummy raspas (shaved ice).
Overall, we enjoyed our time in Oaxaca City!
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