MEXICO CITY'S GOLDEN ICON
The Angel of Independence, or “El Ángel,” is one of the most famous landmarks in Mexico City. Built to celebrate the centennial of Mexico’s independence from Spain, it’s a symbol of freedom, pride, and national spirit.
A REMINDER OF INDEPENDENCE
Created for the
centennial of Mexico’s
Independence and
inaugurated on
September 16, 1910, by
President Porfirio Díaz.
TALL AND PROUD
The monument stands 45
meters (148 feet) high.
You can climb 200 stairs
inside to reach the top.
NOT REALLY AN ANGEL
At top of the huge
column is a 22-foot
statue of the Greek
goddess of victory, Nike.
SHE’S HOLDING SYMBOLS
In one hand, she holds a
laurel crown (for victory),
and in the other, a broken
chain (for freedom).
NEW “ANGEL”
During the 1957
earthquake in Mexico, the
sculpture of Niké was
damaged, so for an entire
year the column remained
without its “Angel.”
A PLACE FOR HEROES
Beneath the column were
the remains of the heroes
of Mexican independence,
including Miguel Hidalgo.
They are now in the
National Palace for public
honoring.
4 GREEK GODDESSES
At each corner of the
base are four figures
representing four Greek
goddesses: Eunomia
(Law), Irene (Peace),
Nemesis (Justice), and
Athena (War).
THE CENTRAL MEDALLION
The central medallion on
one of the doors leading
into the mausoleum
shows a face, it’s the
daughter of architect
Rivas Mercado, who was
in charge of the
monument’s final design.
SYMBOL OF STRENGTH
It’s become a place
where people gather to
celebrate big events,
protests, pride parades,
and social movements.