The site arose as a ceremonial center around 500 BC, to end its impressive growth in about 850 AD. Together with the buildings for worship and other uses, the numerous tombs dating from the Classic period, richly decorated with polycrome frescoes are proof of the political and religious power of the ruling elite. The Zapotecs were the first Mesoamericans to use writing. Tomb 7 was the most spectacular find, containing over 200 ritual objects, together known as the Monte Albán Treasure.

This guide introduces readers to the world of the Zapotecs, describes the tours and impressions of the first discoverers, journeyers, explorers and archaeologists. A complete tour of the site accompanied by a detailed plan enables visitors to become familiar with the monuments one by one. There follows a description of the main tombs, and the book ends with a visit to the Site Museum, where there is a wide variety of original stelae in addition to other works of art.

Available in: Spanish, English, French and German.