Torre del Reformador, Steel tower in Zone 9, Guatemala City, Guatemala.
Torre del Reformador is a 75-meter tall steel lattice structure located at the intersection of 7th Avenue and 2nd Street in Zone 9. Its open metal framework design shapes the city skyline while serving as a navigation aid for aircraft traffic.
Erected in 1935, the tower was built to commemorate the centennial of President Justo Rufino Barrios, who implemented major reforms across Guatemala. This structure became a monument to his political legacy and the country's modernization efforts.
The structure reflects a connection between Guatemala and France through its metal lattice design, which draws inspiration from European engineering methods. Locals and visitors alike recognize it as a distinctive landmark that stands apart from surrounding buildings in the city.
The tower is visible from various points throughout the city, particularly during clear weather and good visibility. Its location at a major intersection makes it easy to access, though public access to the interior is not typically available.
A Belgian bell originally hung within the tower but was replaced in 1986 by an aviation light to aid aircraft navigation. This change marked the shift from a purely symbolic monument to a functional aid for the city's airspace.
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