The Zapotec ruled above the Valley of Oaxaca from there hilltop capital, named Monte Alban. Any visit to Oaxaca should include a tour of these impressive ruins. The native people living in Oaxaca today can trace their heritage directly back to the inhabitants of Monte Alban and the surrounding valley. The ruins are located just outside of Oaxaca City and visit to the ceremonial mountaintop will make you feel "on top of the world".