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where was nacho libre filmed

“Nacho Libre” was filmed primarily on location in Mexico , especially in the state of Oaxaca , with some key work done on studio backlots in the United States.

Main Filming Locations

  • Oaxaca, Mexico – Most of the movie’s exteriors were shot in and around the city of Oaxaca and nearby towns, giving the film its distinctive colonial streets and markets look.
  • Villa de Etla (near Oaxaca) – The fictional monastery/orphanage setting is based around the Sanctuary of Las Peñitas on the outskirts of Villa de Etla.
  • Monte Albán, Oaxaca – The school trip scene near the end of the film takes place at the famous Monte Albán archaeological site.

Other Notable Spots

  • Oaxaca Centro – Various street, market, and night scenes were filmed in Oaxaca’s historic center, including areas like Plaza de la Danza and streets near Santo Domingo.
  • Parque Ciudad de las Canteras (Oaxaca) – The cliff where Nacho climbs to get the eagle egg is in this park just outside central Oaxaca.

Studio and Backlot Work

  • Universal Studios Hollywood (California, USA) – Many interiors and some exteriors used the “Mexican Street” backlot set and sound stages at Universal Studios.
  • Churubusco Studios, Mexico City – Additional interior work was done at these well‑known film studios in Mexico City.

So if you’re tracking “where was Nacho Libre filmed,” the short version is: mostly Oaxaca (and nearby Villa de Etla) in Mexico , plus Monte Albán , with interiors and extra scenes at Universal Studios Hollywood and Churubusco Studios in Mexico City.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.