Hands in clay: Atzompa with Archaeological Zone

Enjoy one of the most authentic cultural experiences in Oaxaca with this unique combination of archaeology, traditional pottery, and home-cooked cuisine in the historic village of Santa María Atzompa. Spend the day with the renowned Ardilla family, master artisans who have dedicated generations to preserving Oaxaca's ancient ceramic traditions.

Your experience begins at the Ardilla family's home workshop, where you'll be warmly welcomed before setting off with your new friend and local group leader, Josué, to visit the Atzompa Archaeological Site. Choose between a scenic 50-minute walk through the countryside or a short 10-minute drive to the hilltop ruins. As you explore this impressive Zapotec ceremonial center, you'll witness monumental temples, plazas, and breathtaking panoramic views overlooking the Oaxaca Valley and surrounding mountains.

After returning to the family's home, you'll enjoy a delicious traditional Oaxacan lunch prepared with local ingredients and shared around the family table—an opportunity to connect through conversation, stories, and genuine Oaxacan hospitality.

The afternoon is dedicated to the art of clay. Each member of the Ardilla family specializes in different pottery techniques and will guide you through the fascinating process of transforming raw earth into beautiful ceramics. You'll learn where the clay comes from, how it is prepared, the traditional tools used by generations of artisans, and the techniques that have made Atzompa famous throughout Mexico.

Then comes the highlight of the day: creating your own pottery! Whether you're a complete beginner or have previous experience, you'll receive personalized instruction while working with your choice of an electric pottery wheel, a traditional kick wheel, or hand-building techniques. You'll shape your own ceramic pieces while learning the firing, decorating, and painting methods used by local artisans.

*Firing and delivery of your cooked pieces to Tlayudona on the agreed upon date (usually between 1-2 weeks from the experience, depending on the weather)

*Pieces can be shipped to you at your own cost. Keep in mind that international shipping of pottery is quite expensive, and we will not know the exact shipping price until the cooked pieces can be weighed by the shipping company. You can also take home your uncooked pieces to be fired at a later date.