The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has recognized Mexico’s Camino Real de Tierra Adentro and the Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca as World Heritage sites.
Mexico now has 31 properties recognized by UNESCO and has had sites on UNESCO’s list since 1987.
El Camino Real de Tierra Adentro, also known as the Royal Inland Road or the Silver Route, is the oldest route in the Americas. Lying along an 869-mile section of this 1,615-mile route are 55 sites and five existing World Heritage sites, such as the Protective Town of San Miguel and the Sanctuary of Jesus Nazareno de Atotonilco, the Town of Guanajuato and Adjacent Mines, the Historic Center of Mexico City and Xochimilco, the Historic Center of Zacatecas and the Franciscan Missions in the Sierra Gorda of Queretaro.
The Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca lies on the northern slope of the Tlacolula valley in subtropical central Oaxaca and consists of two pre-Hispanic archaeological complexes and a series of prehistoric caves and rock shelters. The Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca are located near another World Heritage site, the Historic Center of Oaxaca and Archaeological Site of Monte Alban, a combination of pre-conquest, colonial and modern influences. Some of the many sites in Oaxaca’s historical downtown include the main plaza, the government palace, the Cathedral of Oaxaca and the city market, as well as some of Mexico’s most ornately decorated churches.
Visit www.whc.unesco.org.