It’s easy to spot the El Angel Landmark in Mexico, specifically because it’s found in the roundabout over at the Paseo dela Reforma in the city’s downtown area. It’s a tall column that stands in the middle, with the image of an angel on top. The column at night is illuminated, and it looks as if the angel stands guard over this part of Mexico City.

The site is also known as the El Angel but it is officially listed as the Columna de la Independencia.

Built in commemoration of Mexico’s War of Independence, the El Angel is already more than 100 years old, and is actually one of Mexico’s most noticeable landmarks. The angel stood as events and celebrations have taken place, or even protests and unrest. It has been a witness to this country’s very rich history.

Below the tall column, you can found bronze scupltures that represent peace, war, justice and law. There is also a separate column of statues that depict all of the heroes during the War of Independence. The column carries an inscription that reads “La Nación a los Héroes de la Independencia”, and also below it, there is an image of a child being led by a bronze statue. This reportedly represents innocence and strenght during the country’s most trying times.

Mexico’s El Angel is recognized all over the world and continues to be the site for many historical developments in the country. It’s a fitting symbol of Mexico’s triumph and struggles as a nation and would definitely make a lovely postcard shot to remember Mexico by.