About Oaxaca, Mexico.

The Instituto Cultural Oaxaca is located in a gracious 19th century estate in the colonial city of Oaxaca. Here you can study Spanish while enjoying one of Mexico’s greatest charms, the enchanting city of Oaxaca. Oaxaca’s cultural, environmental and historical offerings serve as a backdrop, enriching and complementing your Spanish learning experience.

Over 90% of the state of Oaxaca is made up of mountain ranges. Thanks to this unique composition, Oaxaca is home to every ecosystem that is found all throughout Mexico – boasting ten thousand different species of plant life and making it the richest state in Mexico in terms of foliage and nature. One can enjoy the thousands of different species of plant life native to the state even without leaving the city by visiting the Jardin Etnobotanico, a beautiful garden located in the historical center of the city.

Day of the Dead in Oaxaca at Instituto Cultural Oaxaca from Carlos Hernandez Topete on Vimeo

The city of Oaxaca is situated in the central valleys of the state, at an altitude of 5,000 feet (1,546 meters). The city’s location provides breathtaking mountain views as well as pleasant weather year round.

The Instituto Cultural Oaxaca is located in the historic center of the city, where daily life proceeds among the colonial churches and buildings. The indigenous groups who once inhabited the nearby archaeological sites of Monte Albán, Mitla, and Yagul continue to influence the language, lifestyle, and art of the area, complementing the colonial aspects of the city. Students will become immersed into this culture that is enriched by both modern and ancient Mexican traditions.

The Zócalo, or main square, is just a short walk from the Instituto and is the heart of the city of Oaxaca. Its sidewalk cafes provide a wonderful setting for enjoying the beautiful weather, concerts, parades and constantly changing scenery.

En route to the Zócalo from the Instituto Cultural Oaxaca, students will find many museums, art galleries, churches, and cultural centers which captivate the interest of people of all ages. Here, one can see how the 16 indigenous groups’ cultures play a role in everyday life. The original crafts and products these groups produce and sell can be found in the open-air markets which exist all throughout the city. Outside of the city once can find ruins, artisan villages and beautiful natural scenery, all educational adventures waiting to happen.

Spanish study in Oaxaca is truly a unique experience you will not be able to find anywhere else in the Spanish-speaking world. The Instituto Cultural Oaxaca has all the tools to not only connect you to the Spanish language but to also help you discover the culture of Oaxaca!