Recognisable by their colourful traditional dress — the proud heritage of a two-thousand-year-old civilisation — the women of the Mexican isthmus form what resembles a matrilineal society. "They are the government, the people, the guardians of men and goods," notably in Juchitán, "the city of flowers" in Zapotec, where they shine at the heart of the region and enjoy remarkable economic power. A central element of their identity, the Zapotec women's costume reflects their belonging to pre-Hispanic culture. Composed of a petticoat (enagua) and an embroidered sleeveless top (huipil), it is the result of hours of work: flowers hand-embroidered in silk thread on velvet, making each piece unique. The starched white-lace headdress (resplandor) completes the outfit and holds a central, highly symbolic place.