Before us rises a tribute to a pivotal figure. The Monumento de Miguel Hidalgo stands as a reminder of Mexico’s fight for independence.
This monument is more than just bronze and stone. It represents the spirit of a nation. The Monumento de Miguel Hidalgo honors Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla. He was a priest a military leader and a key figure in Mexico’s independence. Hidalgo promoted the abolishment of slavery in Mexico.
The Monumento de Miguel Hidalgo we see is a reproduction. The original marble sculpture created by Italian sculptor Enrique Alciati in 1910 resides at the foot of the Column of Independence. It is locally known as “El Ángel” for the golden figure that crowns it.
Now picture this the city of Madrid and Mexico City. They engaged in a cultural exchange. Madrid gifted a reproduction of the Fuente de Cibeles. Mexico City presented this monument of Miguel Hidalgo.
Lift your gaze to the statue. See Hidalgo dressed in military attire. He proudly holds a flag. Two bronze female figures accompany him at the base.
Notice the figure seated to the left. She represents History writing in a book. To the right stands the figure of Glory offering a laurel crown to Hidalgo. These figures symbolize the importance of Hidalgo.
Take note of the pedestal’s details. A bronze garland of ovals and a shield with the date 1979 adorn it. The pedestal features vertical fluting. At the base broken chain links symbolize the end of slavery.
Consider the inscription at the pedestal’s base. It reads “BEING AGAINST THE CLAMORS OF NATURE THE SELLING OF MEN THE LAWS OF SLAVERY ARE ABOLISHED”. These are the words of Miguel Hidalgo from December 5 1810.
Feel the texture of the pink granite. This sculpture stands approximately 9 meters high. The bronze adds a timeless quality.
The Monumento de Miguel Hidalgo stands as a symbol of freedom. It is a tribute to a leader’s vision. A nation’s journey toward independence is immortalized here in bronze and stone.