The Minerva

The Minerva is a bronze figure at a roundabout in Guadalajara holding a spear and shield, wearing a Late Roman ridge helmet and a goatskin aegis across its torso. The figure rises roughly 8 meters above its pedestal, showing the Roman goddess in her traditional warrior stance.

Governor Agustin Yanez commissioned the sculpture in 1956 to position Guadalajara as a cultural center. The unveiling took place on September 15, 1957, marking a turning point in the urban symbolism of the city.

The goddess shows facial features drawn from photographs of women native to the Jalisco region, giving her a local identity. This connection between Roman mythology and regional traits makes the sculpture a symbol that brings together both traditions.

The pedestal extends roughly 25 meters and displays the names of 18 distinguished citizens who contributed to the development of Guadalajara. Visitors can view the inscriptions while driving around the roundabout or walking nearby.

At the base of the sculpture, an inscription in Spanish reads: May justice, wisdom and strength guard this loyal city. This phrase refers to the values associated with the Roman goddess and gives the monument a solemn meaning.