Estela de Luz, the Stele of Light, is a 104-metre-high monument on Lieja street in Mexico City, in the Bosque de Chapultepec area and opposite Torre Mayor. It was built to mark the 200th anniversary of Mexico's independence from Spanish rule, and the 2010 bicentennial deadline was affected by construction delays. The tall structure can be seen from far away and looks different once it is lit at night. The open area around it has street vendors and is pleasant for a walk, with the park and the Angel of Independence close by.
Why the Stele of Light was built
Estela de Luz was planned to commemorate the bicentennial of Mexico's independence from Spanish rule, celebrated in 2010. The monument rises 104 metres and stands opposite Torre Mayor, one of the towers near Chapultepec.
Construction was delayed, so the work did not match the anniversary date. Opinions on the design differ. Some people find it an impressive piece of architecture, while others find the link to independence hard to read from the structure alone.
Around the monument
The monument has no information board, and a first-time visitor may not realise it is a memorial. Knowing the bicentennial background beforehand makes the visit more meaningful.
The area around it is an open outdoor space with street vendors. A BBVA bank and a Four Seasons hotel are nearby. The park and the Angel of Independence are also within walking distance, so the monument works well as one stop on a longer stroll.
On Mexican Independence Day, crowds gather here for the celebration parade. At night the monument is illuminated and gives a different view of the structure from the daytime one.
Perguntas frequentes
What is Estela de Luz?
Estela de Luz, or the Stele of Light, is a monument in Mexico City built for the 200th anniversary of Mexico's independence from Spanish rule, marked in 2010.
How tall is Estela de Luz?
It is 104 metres high. It stands opposite Torre Mayor and can be seen from a distance.
Is there an explanation of the monument on site?
No sign explains the monument, so it helps to learn the background before you arrive.
Is Estela de Luz open every day?
No. It is closed on Mondays and open the rest of the week. The entrance is wheelchair accessible.
When is the best time to see it?
It can be seen by day, but it is also lit at night, which gives a different view. On Independence Day a celebration parade draws large crowds.
