The Angel of Independence is a prominent monument located along Paseo de la Reforma in Mexico City. This iconic structure serves as a symbol of victory and national pride, making it a must-see destination for visitors attending the Feria del Mole.

During the Feria del Mole, this historic site transforms into a lively hub for food enthusiasts. The festival showcases a diverse array of mole dishes, crafted by talented vendors who celebrate this traditional Mexican cuisine. Attendees can explore tasting maps to navigate the various offerings, ensuring they experience the full spectrum of flavors.

The Angel of Independence not only provides a picturesque backdrop for the festival but also serves as a convenient stop for festival-goers. Visitors can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while indulging in the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.

Whether you're a local or a tourist, the Angel of Independence is an essential part of the Feria del Mole experience. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in the culture and taste the exquisite mole dishes that define this celebration.

Visiting the Angel Between Tastings

The monument's formal name is the Columna de la Independencia, though nearly everyone in Mexico City simply calls it El Ángel. It was inaugurated in 1910 to mark the centenary of the start of the War of Independence. The gilded winged Victory at the top holds a laurel crown in one hand and a broken chain in the other. The mausoleum at the base holds the remains of several heroes of the independence movement, which is why the site is treated with a certain respect even on its busiest days.

Getting there and getting around

The Angel stands on a large roundabout on Paseo de la Reforma, close to the Zona Rosa and the Juárez and Cuauhtémoc neighbourhoods. Reforma is served by Metrobús lines and has bike lanes, and the city's public bike-share system has docks along the avenue. Traffic around the roundabout can be heavy, so use the marked crossings rather than cutting across the circle. On Sunday mornings parts of Reforma are often closed to cars for cycling and walking, which makes it a pleasant approach on foot.

Practical tips for food lovers

  • Pace yourself. Mole is rich, and many versions are heavy with chiles, nuts, seeds and chocolate. Small portions let you compare a dark mole negro with a lighter mole verde or a sweet-spiced mole poblano without tiring your palate.
  • Bring cash in small denominations. Market-style food stalls in Mexico often prefer it, even where cards are accepted.
  • Mind the altitude and sun. Mexico City sits at over 2,200 metres, so carry water, a hat and sunscreen, especially at midday.
  • Plan for rain. From roughly June to September, afternoon showers are common. A light waterproof layer is worth packing.

Before you head out, check the schedule for current timings, and use the tasting map to decide which stalls to visit first. If a particular sauce wins you over, the recipes section is a good place to learn how its layers of toasted chiles and spices come together at home.

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