The Zapotec people are centered in Oaxaca in south central Mexico. In Pre-Columbian times they were one of the Mesoamerican civilizations. Archeological evidence shows their culture goes back some 2500 years. Their most impressive ancient city was Monte Albán; other important Pre-Columbian Zapotec sites include Lambityeco, Yagul, and Zaachila.
The most famous Zapotec person in modern times was Benito Juarez, generally regarded as Mexico's greatest President.
There are over 400,000 Zapotec people living in Mexico today.