• Residential structures: Archaeologists have found proof of residential buildings in Monte Albán, showing that people actually lived there all year long rather than just during ceremonial occasions. These buildings are situated close to the ceremonial core and are designed in the same architectural style.
• Workshops: Archaeologists have found workshops in Monte Albán where various things, such as pottery, jewelry, and stone tools, were made. These workshops provide information on the city's economic activity and demonstrate that it was a hub for manufacturing and trade.
• Storage facilities: Archaeologists have found storage facilities containing maize, beans, and other meals in Monte Albán. These facilities show that the city was able to store food and support a sizable population, which hints to long-term habitation rather than just occasional ceremonial gatherings.
• Burial sites: Archaeologists have discovered burial sites in Monte Albán that contain the bodies of both elites and average people. These burials show that the city was a hub for social and political activity and provide information about the city's social structure and religious beliefs.
• Water management systems: Archaeologists have found sophisticated water management systems in Monte Albán, which include dams, canals, and reservoirs. These systems show that the city was well-organized and capable of meeting the demands of a sizable population.
In conclusion, Monte Alban's function as a ceremonial center is one of its many facets, as shown by the existence of residential buildings, workshops, storage facilities, burial places, and water management systems. These discoveries reveal that the city was a busy metropolis that was the political, economic, and social hub of the Zapotec civilization.