Monumento a Cuauhtémoc, Statue in Cuauhtémoc, Ciudad de México, Mexico
The Monumento a Cuauhtémoc is a statue in Ciudad de México, Mexico, dedicated to the last Aztec ruler. It stands on a stone base adorned with bronze figures and the names of Cuauhtémoc's allies, with the main bronze sculpture rising above.
Inaugurated in 1887, the monument was created to commemorate the 152nd anniversary of the fall of Tenochtitlan. It was moved in 1949 due to street expansion and again in 2004, returning close to its original spot after restoration.
The base bears the names of indigenous leaders who resisted the Spanish conquest, with Cuitláhuac's name placed most prominently. Visitors often pause to read these inscriptions, which honor the defenders of Tenochtitlan.
The monument sits on a busy avenue, so approach it from the sidewalk and use the pedestrian crossings. It is easy to see at any time, but mornings are less crowded and allow a closer look.
The monument is flanked by eight bronze feline sculptures, six of which were damaged in 2020 when fragments were stolen. They were restored in 2021 using 3D scans of the two intact figures to recreate the missing parts.
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