The Angel of Independence is one of the most iconic monuments in Mexico City. As a highly cherished symbol for the residents of the capital, the Angel has become a cultural icon and a primary destination for various national celebrations and demonstrations. It is located on Paseo de la Reforma, between the streets of Río Tíber and Florencia.
The Angel consists of a 90-meter-high column, on top of which rests a statue of the Greek goddess Victoria with outspread wings. Originally built to commemorate Mexico’s independence from Spain, it has also become the final resting place for various war heroes
Access to the Independence Column is allowed and free, and it is even possible to ascend to the top of the tower through its staircase with over 200 steps.
History of the Angel of Independence The project for this monument emerged in 1843 following a call from President Antonio López de Santa Anna to hold a competition for the construction of a monument to commemorate Mexico’s independence.
The first stone of the project was laid on September 16, 1843, in the central square (zócalo) of the capital. However, due to a lack of funds and a change of government, the project was interrupted.
In 1886, a competition was reopened to continue the project, but this time on a roundabout on Paseo de la Reforma, which was beginning to be surrounded by high socio-economic developments.
In 1891, project leaders were appointed: Antonio Rivas Mercado as the project director, Enrique Alciati in charge of the sculptures, and Roberto Gayol responsible for civil engineering. In 1906, they noticed a sinking on one side of the construction, leading to the decision to demolish it entirely.
In 1907, the work resumed with a new team consisting of engineers Guillermo Beltrán and Manuel Marroquín, and architect Manuel Gorozpe.
The Angel of Independence monument was inaugurated on September 16, 1910, by President Porfirio Díaz, commemorating the Centennial of Mexico’s Independence.
In 1957, a strong earthquake caused the fall of the Winged Victory to the base of the column pedestal. A restoration effort followed, reinforcing the structure with metallic elements, and a new Winged Victory was crafted for the top of the column. The head of the original statue is on display at the Historical Archive of Mexico City.
The Winged Victory The Winged Victory is a hollow bronze statue, conveying a sense of flight and freedom with its outspread wings. The right arm extends forward, holding a laurel wreath to honor heroes. The left hand points downward and backward, holding a broken chain with three links. This chain symbolizes the three centuries of the Spanish colonial rule. The bronze surface of the statue is covered with a layer of gold leaf, giving it a special shine in the light.