Mitla

Mitla is a typical temple structure. The town is built within the compound and the Spanish Catholic Church on the ruins.

Enclosed spaces are limited.

Carvings tell stories.

Patterns are in lintels and often represent water, believed to be the source of life. Other patterns include clouds and lightening streaks, also connected to water. There is a connection of culture to nature: the rain, water, corn, flowers. Art and architecture were related to nature and religion. Designs venerated, showed power, drawing down of power, and placation.

Mitla is a place of the underworld, but locals think it’s a creative place. Forces of nature were not worshipped exactly, but venerated.

Inside dark room. No mortar was used; the stones fit precisely, which took sophisticated knowledge of mathematics.

"There is still another story to be told and we are the translators."

Professor Ron Spores.