Mexico: Le Gran Plaza

La Gran Plaza of Monterrey, Mexico, is 4000 square meters in area

, making it the largest city plaza in the world, and an important stop during anyone's travels. Here, old bits of Mexican history are revealed using sculptures, monuments, and buildings in a new plaza setting. History spanning hundreds of years, shows us that although Mexico has a unique and fascinating past, the country today has many innovators that continue to contribute to the nation's strong identity.

Lighthouse of Commerce (Faro del Comercio), is a 70 meter tall lighthouse, from which an ethereal green laser points to the sky each night, and this is the main attraction of La Gran Plaza. Celebrated architect Luis Barragan designed the lighthouse shortly before his death in 1988. Barragan was well-known part of the Mexican cultural movement, and he is still honored around the world today, for his work. His home and studio have even been included among the UNESCO World Heritage site lists.

In Mexico City there is the National Palace, still standing in its colonial form as Hernan Cortes left it. In La Gran Plaza the Governor of the state of Nuevo Leon's office is in Palacio de Gobierno, a building that mirrors many of the same architectural elements as the National Palace. Huge dramatic columns mark the main entrance, topped by a six foot statue of a golden eagle. One of the older elements of the plaza is Capilla do los Dulces Nombre, which is situated right next to the Governor's Palace. As a 19th century Roman Catholic chapel, it bears all the usual elements one would expect of its age and station.

Deep in the heart of the plaza is a peaceful hidden garden called Jardin Hundido. There is a large marble fountain, ornamental flower beds and sculpted shrubs, but the highlight is Speaker's Corner. Here residents and politicians hold open debates and discussions, peacefully and with the laws of society at hand. Also within the plaza is a showpiece of a park, the office of the mayor, the local city hall, and a public library: Fuente de Neptuno. Rivaling similar features found in Italy and France, is an immense bronze fountain which depicts the Roman god Neptune.

Sometimes a town square is not just a town square. In Monterrey, Mexico the city plaza represents the Mexican people's talent in art, design, and architecture. A high regard for the voice of the people is evident in this plaza, and as a structure it highlights the progressiveness of the Mexican government.

by: Robert Nickel

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