Torre del Reformador facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Torre del Reformador |
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Torre del Reformador
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| General information | |
| Location | 7ª Avenida y 2ª Calle, Zona 9, 01009 Guatemala City, Guatemala |
| Completed | 1935 |
| Owner | Guatemala City, Guatemala |
| Height | 71.85 m (236 ft) |
| Design and construction | |
| Architect | Arturo Bickford |
| Main contractor | United States Steel Products Company |
The Torre del Reformador (which means 'Tower of the Reformer') is a tall tower in Guatemala City. It stands about 72 meters (236 feet) high. This tower was built in 1935. It celebrates 100 years since the birth of Justo Rufino Barrios. He was a president of Guatemala who made many important changes to the country.
The tower looks a bit like the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris. When it was first built, it had a bell at the very top. In 1986, this bell was replaced with a bright light, called a beacon.
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About the Tower of the Reformer
The Torre del Reformador is a well-known landmark in Guatemala City. It is located at 7th Avenue and 2nd Street in Zone 9. The tower is made of strong galvanized iron. It was built in the United States and then put together in Guatemala.
The total cost to build the tower was Q49,775.60. Arturo Bickford, who was the Mayor of the City at that time, was in charge of putting it together.
A Gift from Belgium
The country of Belgium gave a special gift for the tower. They donated the large bell that was originally placed inside the tower's structure. This bell was an important part of the tower for many years.
Lights and Landscaping
Over time, the tower has been updated. The bright beacon light at the top helps guide people. The area around the tower has also been made beautiful with plants and landscaping. A company called PUBLICAR, S.A. helped with these improvements.
The Torre del Reformador has become a lasting symbol of Guatemala City. Many people recognize it as an important part of their beautiful city.
History of the Tower
The tower was made by a company called the United States Steel Products Company. Its first name was "Commemorative Tower of July 19, 1935." This name honored the date it was opened.
First Electric Lights
The tower got its first electric lights on September 26, 1958. A brewery company called Cervecería Centro Americana paid for these lights. This made the tower shine brightly at night.
Beacon Lights Over Time
The original beacon light at the top of the tower stopped working in 1969. A new one was put in its place. This second light also stopped working and was replaced in 1984. In 1994, after ten years, the third beacon light was replaced. The fourth light was a gift from the US airline company American Airlines.
See also
