Where was Nacho Libre filmed?

This scene in Nacho Libre takes place in the Sanctuary of Las Peñitas, a small village surrounded by hills and rocky terrain. The town is said to have been founded over 500 years ago, making it one of the oldest towns in Mexico. Here, Ignacio (Jack Black), a monk at the monastery, decides to become a luchador and enlist his friend Steven (Héctor Jiménez) as his tag-team partner. We view a scene in which a curious child watches Ignacio and Steven as they showcase their abilities against the backdrop of Sanctuary Las Peñitas.

The movie shows some iconic sights of Las Peñitas, such as its massive boulder formation, said to be left behind by God when he rested after creating Earth. The monastery's white walls and red tiles can also be seen; its out-of-the-way location is perfect for Ignacio’s wrestling training. In one notable scene, Ignacio and Steven run up the rocky hill overlooking the town at night to practice their moves before their first match.

To get to Las Peñitas, take a five-minute drive southwest from Villa de Etla.

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Ignacio, often called Nacho, debuted in the movie by gathering a bag of tortilla chips for orphans. However, as he makes his way down a narrow alleyway, Steven robs him for the chips. In the film, we also witness a remarkable moment when Nacho and his sister Encarnación—a nun in the monastery—have an extraordinary rendezvous. The area is populated with century-old buildings and cobblestone streets, while various signs prohibit photography throughout this picturesque location.

The scene was shot at C. de Manuel García Vigil 817, Ruta Independencia, Centro, Oaxaca de Juárez. It is one of the most iconic scenes in Nacho Libre, and this iconic comedy moment has been parodied throughout popular culture and media.

If you want to get to this location, head to Oaxaca de Juárez, where C. de Manuel Garza Vigil is located in the center of the city. It’s around 285 miles southeast of Mexico City.

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The end scene at Monte Albán in Nacho Libre was a beautiful and iconic moment within the film. Ignacio, who had recently become a professional wrestler, is seen beaming with pride as he leads Steven, Sister Encarnación , and orphans on their field trip. The ancient ruins create an awe-inspiring backdrop to his victory as he can finally take the orphans on this unique journey. This triumphant moment has become etched in cinema history, providing an uplifting ending to a comical underdog story.

The majestic ruins of Monte Albán are located in Oaxaca, Mexico, approximately nine miles outside of Oaxaca City Centre. Monte Albán has fascinated explorers and tourists since the colonial era, with its captivating ruins visible from any vantage point in central Oaxaca. Guillermo Dupaix first researched the site during the early 19th century, followed by J. M. García's description published in 1859, and A. F. Bandelier further delving into his visit to Monte Alban in the 1890s. It is one of the most important archaeological sites from the pre-Columbian Zapotec civilization and is composed of several buildings that demonstrate its cultural significance for over 1000 years. Visiting Monte Alban offers a unique insight into Mexican culture and history, with breathtaking views and fascinating structures that take you back in time.

Getting to Monte Albán is easily accessible by taxi directly from the city center or through various guided tours. There is a nominal fee charged when entering the site. However, it is free on Sundays with a valid Mexican ID presented at the ticket office.

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Ignacio's escapades in Mexico come alive through the street scenes, his walk alongside orphans, and meetings with Sister Encarnación or Steven. To gain entrance to an exciting bash thrown by Ramses' manager for the greatest wrestlers, Steven and his partner have no choice but to climb over a wall. That's when Steven discovers that only one luchador can qualify as a professional wrestler—"the last luchador standing" in this upcoming free-for-all match. It is here where he comprehends what it will take to be labeled as a proficient grappler: being the final man left upright inside of the ring at an impending clash.

Universal Studios Hollywood's renowned Mexican Street set was the backdrop for this captivating scene. Opening in the 1970s, its famous Flash Flood zone has since become a top destination at Universal Studios due to its astonishing effects involving twenty thousand gallons of water splashing down a street spanning 200 feet!

Visiting this location is easy; it is just located within Universal Studios Hollywood and can easily be accessed from any part of the park. It’s easy to find your way around as there are many interactive maps available online or onsite when you begin your visit. Tour the studio and explore Universal Studios Hollywood from even more angles with complimentary shuttles to each of its immersive neighborhoods.

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