The Angel of Independence

Inaugurated in 1910 to commemorate the centennial of Mexico's War of Independence, this 45-meter monument stands at the center of Paseo de la Reforma and has become the city's most recognizable landmark. Designed by Antonio Rivas Mercado, the column is crowned by a golden Victoria Alada (winged victory) holding a laurel wreath in one hand and a broken chain in the other, symbolizing freedom. The bronze figure was modeled after a real person and inspired by Nike, the Greek goddess of victory.

The base houses a mausoleum with the remains of key independence heroes including Miguel Hidalgo and José María Morelos. Today it serves as the city's main gathering point for national celebrations, protests, and major sporting victories. On Sundays, Reforma closes to traffic and the area fills with families, runners, and cyclists — the best time to visit if you want to see the monument from the base without dodging cars.