Angel of Independence (Monumento a la Independencia)
The Basics
As one of the most important Mexico City landmarks, most city tours—including on foot, by bike, or on hop-on hop-off buses—pass by the Angel of Independence. However, one of the best ways to see the Angel of Independence—as well as the other monuments which populate the length of Paseo de la Reforma—is during the Sunday bike ride when the avenue is closed to cars. You can also enter the mausoleum at the base of the monument, although climbing to the top of the tower requires advance notice and a special permit.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Angel of Independence is a common gathering point for feminist marches, political protests, and cultural processions in Mexico City.
You’ll often find quinceañeras having professional photographs taken in poofy ball gowns at the base of the Angel of Independence—try not to ruin their shot!
You can tour the mausoleum at the base of the Ángel de la Independencia but to climb the 200 stairs to the top you must ask for a special permit in advance.
Claustrophobic or unfit visitors may wish to skip the steep and narrow climb altogether.
Look out for the tombs of Ignacio Allende, Miguel Hidalgo, and journalist and activist Leona Vicario in the mausoleum.
The Angel of Independence is surrounded by steps and is therefore not accessible for wheelchair users.
How to Get There
The Angel of Independence is situated on a roundabout along the Paseo de la Reforma, one of the most important streets in Mexico City. As such, it’s well connected by public transit and easily accessible on foot. The closest metro station is Insurgentes (Pink Line) and the closest Metrobus station is also Insurgentes (Red Line).
Trip ideas
When to Get There
The Angel of Independence can be admired from afar all year round, although access to the base and viewpoint is typically only available on weekends, with the latter requiring an official permission slip. To see the Angel at its liveliest, visit during a parade or in the aftermath of a feminist march, when the base is often decorated with powerful protest graffiti and posters.
Monuments on the Paseo de la Reforma
The Angel of Independence is perhaps the best known of the Paseo de la Reforma monuments but you should also look out for the Diana the Huntress fountain (Fuente de La Diana Cazadora), La Palma roundabout (Glorieta de La Palma), and the Cuauhtémoc monument (Monumento a Cuauhtémoc). The yellow El Caballito sculpture is also an eye-catching must.
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