Following the American War of Independence and the French Revolution, people worldwide wanted a slice of the autonomous action. Latin America, in particular, took arms, with many countries fighting for their rights to self rule; 200 years on Mexico, Chile and Argentina are now marking the bicentenaries of their independence. In true Latino style, exuberant celebrations are planned throughout 2010.
Mexico
Although autonomy wasn’t achieved until 1821, the Mexican War of Independence was initiated on 15 September 1810 when Miguel Hidalgo, a priest in the small town of Dolores, rang the church bell to gather the people in order to rise up against the Spanish Crown.
This event is commemorated annually in town squares across the country. There are plenty of places you can soak up the revolutionary spirit. Start in Mexico City: wander the historic centre, focused around the Zócalo plaza, and you will find the Palace of Iturbide, where Mexico’s first Emperor was crowned, and the statue of war heroine Josefa Ortiz de Domínguez. If you’re feeling energetic, climb the 200-plus steps inside the Columna de la Independencia for expansive views.
As part of the build up to the celebrations, roads that were key to the independence movement have been labelled with ‘Ruta 2010’ signs, so you can follow events as you travel the country. And travel you must: don’t miss the pre-Hispanic city of Teotihuacan, to wander amid the vast Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon; a visit to vibrant Oaxaca, the place to sit in shady squares and eat Mexico’s best food; and a Mayan immersion at the ancient sites of Uxmal and Chichen Itza. To fully embrace the mood, head to Mexico City in September, when the Zócalo will be strewn with lights and flags. Or head to the Bicentennial Expo Park in Guanajuato, where a huge fair will showcase Mexico’s heritage.
Argentina
In May 1810 news reached Buenos Aires that Napoleon’s forces had conquered Andalucía – the Spanish motherland had fallen, igniting a war of independence between autonomy seeking Argentines and royalists. After years of fighting, Argentina officially declared independence on 9 July 1816.
Today, you’ll discover a staunchly proud nation. For some historical orientation start in Buenos Aires at the National Museum of the Cabildo and the May Revolution. The Cabildo was the government house during colonial times and is now home to a range of exhibits – plus a lively craft market. Also head to the old Central Post Office, which is being reopened in May as the Bicentennial Cultural Centre, complete with concert halls and galleries. Indeed, Semana de Mayo (May Week) will be the focal point of the 2010 celebrations – expect plenty of music and dancing.
Outside the capital leave revolutionary leanings aside and go wild: much of rural Argentina has changed little for centuries. Los Glaciares National Park, a wilderness of rugged mountains and glacial lakes, has a timeless beauty, while the Lake District offers hundreds of hiking trails to get you out into nature. Other highlights include the top tipples of Mendoza’s vineyards and the rainbow-framed torrents of Iguazu Falls.
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About Tessa Biddulph
Other articles by Tessa Biddulph
Tessa Biddulph works in the marketing department and is new to Bales Worldwide. She is spending a year at Bales Worldwide before heading back to university to complete a PR degree. Tessa’s favourite destination she has travelled to is Sydney, Australia, but since working at Bales she has already drawn up a long list of places she’d like to visit (number 1 being Machu Picchu, in Peru). 