Angel of Independence

The Angel of Independence, commonly called El Ángel, is a triumphal column and monument on Mexico City’s Paseo de la Reforma, inaugurated in 1910 to commemorate the centenary of Mexican independence. The column is surmounted by a gilded winged victory figure and serves as a city landmark and rallying point.

The monument incorporates a sculptural pedestal and a mausoleum that holds the remains of several independence-era heroes. Its prominent urban position at a major roundabout and its illumination at night make it highly visible across central Mexico City.

Commissioned during the Porfiriato, the monument quickly became a focal point for national ceremonies and popular gatherings and remains an iconic symbol of Mexico’s independence and civic life.

It stands along Paseo de la Reforma close to Chapultepec and other central districts and is readily accessible by multiple public transport routes.

• Dimensions and inauguration: The column is approximately 36 meters tall and is topped by a gilded Victory statue; the monument was inaugurated in 1910 to mark the centenary of Mexican independence.
• Best viewing and access: Best views are early morning or after dark when the column and statue are illuminated; the site is heavily trafficked and is most easily reached on foot from Reforma or by public transport.

What to See #

• Column and statue: The column is crowned by a gilded bronze winged Victory figure and stands on a multi-figure sculptural pedestal that includes statues of independence-era figures.
• Mausoleum and crypt: A small mausoleum at the monument's base contains the remains of several of Mexico's independence heroes and is accessible by guided visits at certain times.
• Surrounding plaza: The monument occupies a large roundabout on Paseo de la Reforma and is commonly used as a meeting point and site for public demonstrations and celebrations.