Information
Landmark: Queen Elizabeth ParkCity: Vancouver
Country: Canada
Continent: North America
Queen Elizabeth Park, Vancouver, Canada, North America
Barrio de Jalatlaco is a historic neighborhood located in the city of Oaxaca, Mexico.
Visual Characteristics
This neighborhood is characterized by its cobblestone streets and colonial-era architecture. Buildings are predominantly constructed from adobe and stone, often painted in earthy tones of ochre, terracotta, and muted blues. Many structures feature red tile roofs and wrought-iron balconies. The streets are generally narrow, with some areas featuring small plazas and courtyards.
Location & Access Logistics
Barrio de Jalatlaco is situated approximately 1.5 kilometers east of the Oaxaca city center. Access is primarily via foot or local taxi. Several bus lines serve the general area, with stops a short walk from the neighborhood's core. Parking within the neighborhood itself is limited due to the narrow streets; visitors typically park in designated lots or on streets on the periphery.
Historical & Ecological Origin
The origins of Jalatlaco date back to the pre-Hispanic era, serving as a Zapotec settlement. Following the Spanish conquest, it developed into a distinct barrio, retaining much of its original urban layout. Its historical significance lies in its role as a residential and artisan quarter, preserving traditional Oaxacan building techniques and urban planning.
Key Highlights & Activities
Walking the cobblestone streets and observing the architecture is the primary activity. Visitors can explore artisan workshops, particularly those focused on textiles and pottery. Several small cafes and restaurants are present. Photography of the streetscapes and building facades is common.
Infrastructure & Amenities
Restrooms are available in some cafes and restaurants. Shade is provided by building overhangs and some mature trees along certain streets. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally reliable throughout the neighborhood. Food vendors and small eateries are present within the barrio.
Best Time to Visit
The best time of day for photography is during the morning or late afternoon when the sunlight creates distinct shadows on the buildings and streets. The months of October through April offer drier weather conditions. There are no specific tide requirements.
Facts & Legends
A notable feature of Jalatlaco is the Church of San Matías Jalatlaco, a 16th-century Dominican church that predates many of the surrounding colonial structures. Local lore suggests that the church's bell tower was once used as a lookout point during periods of unrest.
Nearby Landmarks
- 0.8km West: Templo de Santo Domingo de Guzmán
- 1.2km West: Ethnobotanical Garden of Oaxaca
- 1.5km West: Oaxaca Cathedral
- 2.0km Northwest: Mercado Benito Juárez
- 2.5km Northwest: Mercado 20 de Noviembre