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Obelisk of Guatemala City
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Landmark
The Obelisk to Victory, commonly known as El Obelisco, is a prominent landmark situated at the southern terminus of Avenida Reforma in Guatemala City. It was inaugurated in 1935 during the presidency of Jorge Ubico to commemorate the triumph of the Liberal Revolution and the establishment of the 1879 constitution. Standing 18 meters tall, the structure was designed by the architect Rafael Pérez De León, who utilized a neoclassical style to project a sense of national stability and order. The monument occupies the center of a massive roundabout that serves as a vital traffic hub connecting zones 10, 13, and 14 of the capital. Constructed primarily of concrete, its austere lines and monumental scale are characteristic of the civic projects undertaken in Guatemala during the mid-20th century. Today, it remains one of the most recognizable structures in the city and a frequent site for national celebrations and public gatherings.
- Location: Guatemala
- Top sights: Avenida Reforma · Da'wah Mosque of Guatemala · Torre del Reformador
- Nearby: San Cristóbal Verapaz (6 km)
- Population: ~994.938 (2020)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 19 | 21 | 22 | 23 | 23 | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 20 | 19 | 19 |
| Rain mm | 5 | 7 | 12 | 41 | 163 | 225 | 172 | 223 | 243 | 191 | 43 | 8 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Obelisk of Guatemala City is a public monument that can be viewed from the outside at any time. There is no interior access as it is a solid stone stele; you observe it from the surrounding sidewalks.
Typical hours
There are no opening hours as the monument stands in public space and is accessible around the clock. Typically it can be visited without any restrictions at any time - convenient for a spontaneous stop.
Photography
Photography is allowed at any time with no special restrictions. For the best shots, late afternoon light is recommended as it highlights the inscriptions.
Time needed
A visit typically takes only 10 to 15 minutes. Allow extra time if you want to take photos or explore the surrounding square.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Palacio Nacional de la Cultura and the Cathedral. The Parque Central is also within walking distance and worth a short break.
Getting there
The monument is at the busy intersection of Avenida La Reforma and Calle 7. It is easily reachable on foot from the city center or by bus line 101.
Insider tip
Visit the obelisk early in the morning to get the best photos without crowds. Be careful when crossing the street as it stands on a traffic island.
Geography
Facts
- The monument was officially inaugurated on July 19, 1935.
- The total height of the obelisk is exactly 18 meters.
- It was designed by Rafael Pérez De León, the same architect who built the National Palace.
- The structure is located at the intersection of zones 10, 13, and 14.
- It was built to commemorate the victory of the Liberal Revolution of 1871.
- The site serves as a central point for many of the city's major public demonstrations.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Obelisk of Guatemala City (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What does the Obelisk represent?
It was erected in 1935 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Justo Rufino Barrios' birth.
In which zone is it located?
It is located at the end of Avenida Reforma on the border of Zones 10 and 13.
Can you enter the Obelisk?
No, it is a solid monument that can only be viewed from the outside.
When is the best time for photos?
Early morning or at sunset, when traffic is less intense.
Are there parking spaces nearby?
There is no direct parking at the monument, but you can park in nearby malls.
Obelisk of Guatemala City: where is it located?
Obelisk of Guatemala City is located in Guatemala.
Obelisk of Guatemala City: what is there to see?
Highlights include Avenida Reforma, Da'wah Mosque of Guatemala, Torre del Reformador.
Obelisk of Guatemala City: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Obelisk of Guatemala City: why is it worth visiting?
The Obelisk to Victory, commonly known as El Obelisco, is a prominent landmark situated at the southern terminus of Avenida Reforma in Guatemala City.
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