Seven concrete cones reach towards the sky. This is the Reloj Solar the Solar Clock. It’s one of 22 massive sculptures part of the Ruta de la Amistad the Friendship Route. These artworks lined the roads to the 1968 Olympic Games.
Grzegorz Kowalski designed this striking piece. It’s easily missed because of its relatively low profile. But don’t let that fool you. The tallest cone soars five meters high. They’re painted vibrant yellow orange red and ochre. Each cone sits within a large circular area.
The Reloj Solar wasn’t always so colorful. Originally terracotta it received a makeover in 2001. The History Channel Latin America funded the restoration. Kowalski himself chose the brighter more modern colors. The Centro Comercial Perisur maintains the sculpture. American Express takes care of the surrounding garden since 2010.
Notice the interplay of light and shadow on the cones. It changes throughout the day. The colors seem to shift and dance. The artist’s intention isn’t just aesthetic. The cones’ arrangement creates a solar clock. Imagine how different it must have looked in 1968. Imagine the excitement of the Olympics. Then visualize the quiet dignity of this art piece today.
The Reloj Solar is more than a simple sculpture. It’s a testament to international collaboration. It’s a piece of Olympic history. It’s a vibrant splash of color in the urban landscape. It’s a quiet sentinel reminding us of a bygone era. It is a must-see. It’s a hidden gem of Mexico City. You won’t regret taking the time to appreciate the artistry and history of the Reloj Solar.