Angel of Independence
Mexico·remains interred and temporarily exhumed for study·20th century
The Angel of Independence, officially Monumento a la Independencia, is a prominent victory column in Mexico City, constructed in 1910 to commemorate the centennial of Mexican Independence. Later transformed into a mausoleum, it now houses the remains of key heroes of the War of Independence and stands as a significant national symbol and landmark.
Key Facts
- ›Constructed in 1910 to celebrate the centennial of Mexico's War of Independence.
- ›Serves as a mausoleum for prominent heroes of the Mexican War of Independence.
- ›Topped by a 6.7-meter bronze statue of Nike, the Greek goddess of Victory, covered in 24k gold.
- ›The column itself is 36 meters high and made of steel covered with quarried stone.
- ›Has been a focal point for national celebrations, protests, and political rallies.
- ›The mausoleum was opened to the public in 1998.
El Ángel, Monumento a la Independencia
- Commemorates the centennial of Mexican independence.
- Serves as a national symbol of victory and freedom.
- A focal point for national celebrations and political demonstrations.
- Houses the remains of key figures in Mexico's fight for independence.
Antonio Rivas Mercado, Enrique Alciati
Classical, Modern
Steel, Stone, Bronze, 24k Gold
Porfirio DíAz
About Angel of Independence
The Angel of Independence, officially known as the Monumento a la Independencia and commonly referred to as El Ángel, is a towering victory column situated on Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City. Commissioned by President Porfirio Díaz, its construction began in 1902 and was completed in 1910 to mark the centennial of the start of Mexico's War of Independence.
Description and Design
The monument features a quadrangular base adorned with bronze sculptures representing law, war, justice, and peace. A notable bronze sculpture at the base depicts a lion guiding a child, symbolizing the Mexican people. The column itself, standing 36 meters high, is constructed from steel clad in stone and is topped by a 6.7-meter statue of Nike, the Greek goddess of Victory. This iconic golden statue, weighing seven tons, holds a laurel crown in one hand and a broken chain in the other, symbolizing victory and freedom from centuries of Spanish rule.
Historical Context and Transformation
Initially conceived as a monument to independence, El Ángel was later transformed into a mausoleum. In 1925, the remains of prominent heroes of the Mexican War of Independence, such as Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla and José María Morelos y Pavón, were interred within a crypt beneath the monument's base. The monument has undergone restoration following damage from earthquakes in 1957 and 1985, and further refurbishment after acts of vandalism in 2019.
Significance and Public Access
El Ángel de la Independencia has become one of Mexico City's most recognizable landmarks and a potent symbol of national pride. It serves as a rallying point for national celebrations, particularly following victories by the Mexican national football team, and has also been a focal point for political demonstrations. The mausoleum was opened to the public in 1998, and visitors can ascend the column's internal staircase to a viewpoint offering panoramic city views. Visiting hours are typically limited to weekends.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Angel of Independence built?
Construction of the Angel of Independence was ordered in 1900 and the monument was completed in time for the festivities to commemorate the first hundred years of Mexican Independence in 1910. It was inaugurated on September 16, 1910.
Who is buried in the Angel of Independence mausoleum?
The mausoleum houses the remains of key heroes of the Mexican War of Independence, including Father Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, Father José María Morelos y Pavón, Ignacio Allende, and Guadalupe Victoria, among others.
What is the Angel of Independence made of?
The column is made of steel covered with quarried stone, decorated with garlands, palms, and rings. The crowning statue of Nike is made of bronze covered with 24k gold.
Can visitors go inside the Angel of Independence?
Yes, visitors can enter the monument, view memorial plaques, and climb to the top. Access is free but requires a permit, and group visits are limited in size and duration.
Has the Angel of Independence been damaged?
The monument has endured damage from earthquakes, notably in 1957 when the sculpture of the Winged Victory fell and broke. It also sustained damage during an earthquake in 1985 and was affected by vandalism in 2019.
What does the statue at the top represent?
The statue at the top is of Nike, the Greek goddess of Victory. She holds a laurel crown symbolizing Victory above Miguel Hidalgo's head and the nation, and in her other hand, a broken chain symbolizing freedom from Spanish rule.
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