Contemplate the Alameda Central’s oldest public park. Here stands a bronze sculpture. It depicts Alexander Von Humboldt. This monument honors one of the world’s greatest explorers.
Alexander Von Humboldt was a Prussian polymath. He is celebrated for his explorations. They occurred in the Amazon and Andean regions. Humboldt also spent time in Mexico. It was the beginning of the 19th century. He pioneered the study of Mexican fauna. He studied Mexican flora and geology.
Humboldt and Aimé Bonpland wanted to study Polynesia. They also wanted to study Southeast Asia. The pair headed to Acapulco. It was on Mexico’s western coast. They hoped to board a ship. It was destined for the Philippines. The Philippines were also part of Spain’s vast empire.
Reaching Mexico proved irresistible for Humboldt. He received letters from the viceroy. These letters granted access across the country. He could access crown records. He could visit mines and canals. Humboldt could explore estates. He could even visit pre-Hispanic sites. These sites had been forbidden for centuries.
The viceroyalty wanted Humboldt’s geological expertise. They needed him to improve mining methods. This was for Mexico’s rich silver deposits. Humboldt revolutionized New Spain’s mining system. He then focused on exploring Mexico.
In a single year, Humboldt excavated ancient Aztec ruins. He measured artifacts. Humboldt climbed volcanoes and mountains. He documented strange plants and animals. He even discovered new species.
Humboldt left via Veracruz. He headed to Cuba. Then, he took a ship to the United States. He befriended Thomas Jefferson. He had befriended Simón Bolívar earlier.
Humboldt’s year in Mexico was formative. This was for the scientist and the Mexican nation. Mexico gained independence from Spain. Guadalupe Victoria granted Humboldt citizenship. Humboldt never returned to the Americas. But, he remains a hero there.
The statue of Alexander Von Humboldt was commissioned in 1999. The Mexican government marked the 200th anniversary. This was of his visit. It also marked his contributions to science.
Look closely at the statue’s boots. Three details represent his contributions. A basilisk lizard crawls up his boot. This symbolizes his zoology contributions. A vine represents botany discoveries. A notepad shows a math equation. This represents his geology advances.
Alexander Von Humboldt significantly impacted Mexico. He revolutionized mining. He documented its natural wonders. He earned a place as a hero in Mexican history.
You can visit Alameda Central Park easily. Take Metro Line 2. Get off at Bellas Artes station. Walk a short distance. Find the orange building at Republica de Uruguay 80. This is where Humboldt lived. A plaque marks his residence. Remember Alexander Von Humboldt’s legacy.