Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Cultural history
Pelota mixteca is a cultural legacy of the Zapotecs and Mixtecs.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Community game
It is a competition between two teams of five players each. The game begins by throwing a rubber ball on a rock, triggering an intense and strategic exchange, with the ball being thrown between both sides on the court.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Heart in the valley
Yagul is an archaeological zone with evidence of this ball game dating back 8,000 years. This activity transcended sport, connecting religion, politics, and culture.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Heart of Yagul
In Yagul, the central court demonstrates its importance. Close to the palace and temples, the game symbolized political power, mythology, and communication with deities and ancestors.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Traditions in Yagul
More than just a game, in Yagul pelota mixteca symbolized political power, conflict resolution, and mystical events, uniting the community with its rich mythology and deities.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
No gloves, just soul
It is said that in pre-Hispanic times, players did not use any gloves to hit the balls. However, today this sport notably involves gloves that can weigh up to 6 kg.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
A happy accident
Gloves began to be used in 1911 when Daniel Pacheco, after injuring his hand, put on a piece of leather to play. He realized that his glove propelled the ball with more force, making the games more dynamic.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Evolution of the glove
What began with simple seams and metal grommets evolved. Inspired by the Archaeological Zone of Mitla, the gloves were adorned with paintings and detailed designs.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Identity in the hand
The glove has become an extension of the player. With a personalized design and decoration, each glove captures the essence of the person who wears it.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Preserving the game
Thanks to organizations like the Association of Indigenous Games and Sports, July 19 is the day of pelota mixteca, recognized as Oaxaca's intangible heritage.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Regional variants
From Huajuapan to Pinotepa, different variants of pelota mixteca are played. Each region has its own flavor, but all share a common legacy.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Festivals and tradition
The pelota mixteca competitions are not just tournaments; they are the soul of Oaxaca's patron saint festivals. In this game, Oaxaca celebrates and preserves its rich cultural heritage, keeping its traditions alive.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Educational preservation
Pelota mixteca has been integrated into Oaxacan schools, ensuring that the passion and heritage of the game will endure for generations to come.
Mixtec ball, living sport (2023-06-28) by Fernando Moisés Hernández CórdobaSecretaría de las Culturas y Artes de Oaxaca
Living legacy
Pelota mixteca, more than just a game, is a vibrant testimony to Oaxacan culture and resilience that unites generations.
