Mexico City: Independence Angel

Mexico City Vacation Guide Hotel Reservations & Tours

Independence Angel (Angel de la Independencia)

Located along the Paseo de la Reforma, the Angel of Independence was built in 1910 to commemorate the 100 year centennial of the beginning of Mexico's War of Independence. The Independence Angel is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Mexico City and has become a focal point for both celebrations and protests.

In 1925 the Angel was made into a mausoleum for the most important heroes of the Independence War of 1812. The remains of 12 heroes of the Independence were interred in the mausoleum including Miguel Hidalgo and Allende, leaders of the Independence.

The monument suffered some damage during an earthquake in 1957 when the sculpture of the Winged Victory fell to the ground and broke into several pieces. Restoration began and the monument was reopened in 1958. It was undamaged during the 1985 earthquake which devastated much of the city.

An eternal flame (lampera votiva) was installed in the base of the column in 1929. This eternal flame burns in honor of the principal heroes of the Independence whose remains are interred within.

The base contains four side with bronze sculptures symbolizing Law, War, Justice and Peace. The main face, facing el Centro, is a bronze statue of a giant lion led by a child representing strength and the innocence of youth during War but docility during Peace.