Picture the imposing El Moro building. It stands tall a testament to Mexico’s rich history. This isn’t just any building. This is the Lotería Nacional the National Lottery of Mexico. Its presence is striking. Its Art Deco design catches the eye. You’re standing before a piece of Mexican history. A history intertwined with both national identity and public welfare.
The Lotería Nacional wasn’t always housed in this magnificent structure. Its origins trace back to 1770. It began as the Royal General Lottery of New Spain. It was a project championed by King Carlos III of Spain. It was designed to be more efficient than lotteries in Naples England and the Netherlands. The first draw took place in 1771. Initially a source of revenue for the Spanish Crown the lottery’s proceeds soon found their way into public works.
Ten years after the first draw Viceroy Martín de Mayorga allocated 2 percent of the lottery’s funds to charity. The Hospice of the Poor benefited greatly. Later the Hospice of San Andrés received support as well. The lottery’s success led to other lotteries and raffles. They raised funds for various causes. The Auxiliary Lottery for Public Works helped build Chapultepec Castle and restore the Sanctuary of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
The Lotería Nacional’s story continues through Mexican independence. Emperor Agustín de Iturbide renamed it. It became the General Directorate of Lottery Income. Later it supported the Academy of Fine Arts of San Carlos. Funding from the lottery allowed the academy to acquire important artworks. It provided scholarships for students. It even brought renowned teachers to Mexico.
Despite interruptions caused by war and political upheaval the Lotería Nacional persevered. It continued to play a role in supporting essential social programs. Even under President Benito Juárez who initially restricted lotteries the Lotería Nacional’s importance was acknowledged.
During the Porfiriato the lottery contributed to the construction of the General Hospital the Castañeda Manicomio and even a Morisco Kiosk for a St Louis exhibition. The kiosk is now a beloved landmark in Alameda Central. It was originally located there to host lottery draws.
The 20th century saw the Lotería Nacional embrace modern technology. In 1950 the first television signal was transmitted from the 14th floor of El Moro. Today the building remains a symbol of Mexico’s commitment to social welfare and a reminder of the lottery’s fascinating journey. The Lotería Nacional continues its work supporting vital social causes across the nation. It’s a story told in numbers and history a legacy written in every ticket sold.