Review: Monumento a la Revolución

Tell me: What’s this place all about?

This landmark located in the heart of Mexico City commemorates the Mexican Revolution, and is the largest triumphal arch in the world. The main structure evolved over twenty-five years of fits and starts, and a major redesign. It was finished in 1938, to comprise an eclectic blend of Art Deco and Mexican Social Realist styles. A visit to the top observation deck only costs 110 pesos ($5) and there's a museum underground.

What’s it like being there? 

Soaring magnificence. Though this monument is located just off of the main Avenida de Reforma in Tabacalera, it feels somewhat off the beaten track. Tourists bee-line to the historic downtown and main Zocalo and may never catch a glimpse of this breathtaking building. It's worth a slight detour to stand under the arches.

Is there a guide involved?  

As it's a short jaunt off the main avenue, a guide is not necessary. Its imposing stature sits at the top of a large, open-air plaza where couples embrace, workers head to lunch, and kids ride around on bikes.

Who comes here?  

Because the plaza it situated off Reforma, next to a number of offices and government buildings, there are a lot of workers on lunch-break, locals who live in San Rafael or Tabacalera passing through, groups of teenagers practicing dance moves, and only the occasional tourist.

Did it meet expectations? 

The building is jaw-dropping. Walk around the perimeter to see the art-deco stone sculptures at the top of each leg of the building and take an elevator to the observation deck if the timing is right. The monument is also lit up at night.

So then what, or who, do you think it’s best for? 

You don't need much time to witness the glory of this landmark. Saunter around, gawk at the creative architectural stylings of the structure, and walk under the arches. History nerds may be more interested in the small museum below, but more than anything it's an architecturally significant piece. The observation deck has great views, and if you keep your eyes peeled while exploring around town, you'll most likely catch a glimpse of the monument down a main street—but a quick glimpse isn't enough. It's worth the quick 15-minute trip to walk underneath it.