Afternoon On The Oaxaca Alcala

The Pedestrian Thoroughfare In Oaxaca Centro

“Holding His Arm Up” — Image by Author

The Alcala is the pedestrian thoroughfare in Oaxaca Centro. It stretches for six long blocks, running from the Zocalo northward, past the Santo Domingo Cathedral.

This pathway was created for the tourists, though it is even more popular with the local population. From early morning to late at night, there are always walkers and shoppers here.

This group of photographs were made on one Friday afternoon, all within a couple of hours. And a colorful afternoon it was.

“Waiting For Customers” — Image by Author

The Alcala is full of shops, cafes, restaurants, and hotels. It is also a great place for people watching, as well as for people wanting to be seen. Always funny how that works.

Hats are one of the popular items for sale here. I have an idea that most tourists arriving in Oaxaca never think to bring a hat. One really can’t go without some sort of head covering. The sun is direct and bright here.

Walking along these six blocks it is common to see fifteen or more locals selling hats. They also are typically wearing five or six hats on their own heads. Always a great…