Freedom through knowing. That is the motto of El Colegio Nacional. This prestigious institution stands before you a testament to Mexican culture and scholarship. El Colegio Nacional was founded on April 8 1943. Its creation was decreed by President Manuel Avila Camacho. The aim was to unite Mexico’s leading artists and scientists.
El Colegio Nacional isn’t just a building it’s a living legacy. Its very stones whisper stories. The site once housed the Convent of La Enseñanza. The Reform Laws closed the convent in 1863. The building then became the Palace of Justice. Eventually it was divided. Part became the General Notary Archives. The other part became the home of El Colegio Nacional. The building acquired its present appearance in 1871.
During Lazaro Cardenas’ presidency El Colegio Nacional served a different purpose. It housed the Unified Socialist Youth Movement. Its imposing facade on Luis Gonzalez Obregon Street is striking. Built with tezontle a blood-red volcanic stone it is truly magnificent. Greyish-white chiluca stone frames the doors windows and balconies. Ironwork adorns the windows and balconies.
Step inside El Colegio Nacional. Imagine the debates that have unfolded within its walls. Picture the lectures and seminars that have illuminated minds. The main entrance leads to a grand hall. This hall opens to a central patio. Pilasters mark the ground floor. Columns grace the upper level. The assembly hall is the heart of El Colegio Nacional. It is here that new members are initiated. It is here that congresses in various fields are held.
El Colegio Nacional houses nine gilded altarpieces. These date from the late 17th century. The largest is dedicated to Our Lady of the Pillar. Paintings adorn the walls. Two notable pieces are The Assumption of Mary and The Virgin of the Book of Revelation Apocalypse. These masterpieces were created by Andres Lopez in 1779.
El Colegio Nacional’s membership is highly selective. Initially limited to 20 Mexican-born citizens it expanded to 40. The rules were later modified. Naturalized Mexicans can now be admitted regardless of the date of citizenship. Many distinguished figures have graced its ranks. Founders included literary giants like Alfonso Reyes and Diego Rivera. Painters Jose Clemente Orozco and Jose Vasconcelos also played significant roles. Throughout its history countless artists scientists and scholars have shaped the institution. El Colegio Nacional’s legacy continues to thrive enriching Mexican society and culture.