Cultural Immersion in Oaxaca with Friends

Echoes of the Past, Visions of the Future

Today was a day of diving deep into Oaxaca's soul, a journey that took me from the solemn grandeur of a historic convent to the vibrant creativity of a contemporary arts center. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – to witness the layers of history and culture that make each place so unique. I was excited to learn about the history and art of Oaxaca with my friends!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Biche Pobre. I had heard great things about their traditional Oaxacan dishes. It was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of exploration. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the aroma of spices filled the air. I opted for the *tlayuda*, a giant crispy tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and salsa. It was absolutely delicious and set the tone for the culinary adventures to come. My friend Hans went for the *mole negro*, which he said was the best he’d ever tasted.


Discover the authentic taste of Mexico at El Biche Pobre in Oaxaca's charming Barrio de Jalatlaco.

With our stomachs full, we set off to our first destination: the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero. The convent is a short drive from Oaxaca City, and the journey itself was a treat, with stunning views of the Oaxacan countryside. As we approached, the sheer scale of the convent was breathtaking. Its imposing stone walls and the vast, open chapel spoke of centuries of history and devotion.


Explore the Ex Convento Cuilapan de Guerrero, a captivating historical landmark in Oaxaca, showcasing stunning colonial architecture and rich local history.

Wandering through the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero, I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe. The architecture was a blend of indigenous and colonial styles, a testament to the complex history of this region. The roofless chapel was particularly striking, the sky serving as its ceiling, creating a dramatic and ethereal atmosphere. I learned that the convent was never fully completed, which added to its mystique. It felt like a place frozen in time, where the echoes of the past still resonated.

The beauty of Oaxaca lies not just in its vibrant present, but in the echoes of its rich past.

Our guide shared stories of the convent's history, including its role in the execution of Vicente Guerrero, a former president of Mexico. It was a somber reminder of the turbulent times that shaped this nation. Despite its tragic past, the convent exuded a sense of peace and tranquility. I found myself lost in contemplation, imagining the lives of the monks who once walked these halls.

After immersing ourselves in the history of Cuilapam, we journeyed to the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín, also known as CaSa. This contemporary art center is housed in a former textile mill, a brilliant example of repurposing historical spaces for modern creativity. The transformation of the old factory into an art center was spearheaded by the renowned Oaxacan artist Francisco Toledo, and his vision was truly inspiring.


Explore contemporary art and culture at the Centro de las Artes de San Agustín, a vibrant hub in the heart of Oaxaca's artistic landscape.

As we entered CaSa, we were immediately struck by the contrast between the old industrial architecture and the vibrant contemporary art on display. The center featured a variety of exhibits, showcasing works by both local and international artists. From paintings and sculptures to installations and multimedia projects, there was something to captivate every artistic taste. I was particularly drawn to a series of photographs that captured the essence of Oaxacan culture, its people, its traditions, and its landscapes.

CaSa is not just a place to view art; it’s a space for creation and learning. The center offers workshops and courses for artists of all levels, fostering a sense of community and collaboration. I watched as a group of young students worked on their pottery, their faces alight with concentration and passion. It was heartening to see how CaSa was nurturing the next generation of Oaxacan artists.

After a day of exploring art and history, it was time to indulge in more of Oaxaca's culinary delights. We headed to Ancestral Cocina Tradicional for lunch, a restaurant known for its authentic Oaxacan cuisine. The restaurant’s ambiance was warm and inviting, with traditional décor and friendly staff. I decided to try the *molotes de plátano con coloradito*, fried plantain dumplings with a rich, savory sauce. It was a burst of flavors that perfectly encapsulated the essence of Oaxacan cuisine. My friends tried the *tlayudas* and *mole*.


Discover authentic Oaxacan flavors at Ancestral Cocina Tradicional – where every dish tells a story.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Pitiona for dinner, a restaurant that I had heard so much about. Pitiona is known for its innovative take on traditional Oaxacan dishes, blending contemporary techniques with local ingredients. The restaurant itself was stunning, with a rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city.


Experience the essence of Oaxacan cuisine at Pitiona, where tradition meets innovation in every delectable dish.

The menu at Pitiona was a work of art in itself, each dish carefully crafted and beautifully presented. I opted for the tasting menu, a culinary journey through the eight regions of Oaxaca. Each course was a revelation, a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that showcased the diversity of Oaxacan gastronomy. From the delicate seafood ceviche to the rich and complex mole, every dish was a testament to the chef's skill and creativity. Hans enjoyed the *Tacos de lechon*, and said they were perfect.

To cap off our day, we decided to visit Los Amantes Mezcalería for a taste of Oaxaca's most famous spirit. This mezcalería is known for its high-quality mezcal and its dedication to promoting Oaxacan culture. The atmosphere was lively and welcoming, with a knowledgeable staff eager to share their passion for mezcal. I sampled a flight of different mezcals, each with its own unique flavor profile. From the smoky *Espadín* to the smooth *Reposado*, it was a fascinating exploration of this iconic Oaxacan drink.


Experience the essence of Oaxaca at Los Amantes Mezcalería, where artisanal mezcal and local culture converge in a vibrant setting.

As I sipped my mezcal, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the historic grandeur of the Ex Convento Cuilapam de Guerrero to the contemporary creativity of CaSa, from the traditional flavors of El Biche Pobre and Ancestral Cocina Tradicional to the innovative cuisine of Pitiona, it had been a day of cultural immersion and culinary delight. Oaxaca had once again captivated me with its beauty, its history, and its vibrant spirit.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Yagul and San Pablo Villa de Mitla. I’m excited to see more of what Oaxaca has to offer!

The day was a beautiful reminder of why I love traveling with friends. Sharing these experiences with Hans and our friends makes every moment even more special. I am so grateful for these opportunities to learn, explore, and connect with different cultures. It enriches my life in ways I never imagined. I am already looking forward to tomorrow’s adventures!