A replica of Labna’s Arch, a symbol of expression of friendship and links between Mexico and India, was inaugurated by Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit at the Garden of Five Senses on Monday.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Dikshit said the initiative by the State Government will bring both the countries together in heritage, culture and political tie-ups. She said her Government will take steps to beautify the historic Arch by illuminating it during the evening hours.
Describing the collaboration between India and Mexico as a people’s project, Indian National Trust for Art and Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Delhi Chapter convenor A.G.K. Menon said private Mexican and Indian enterprises donated money for this project.
Conceived about a decade ago by former Ambassador of Mexico to India Julio Faesler, the project has been executed with the support of the Delhi Government, INTACH and Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation.
Labna’s Arch is one of the largest and most ornate architectural structures known to have been built by the Mayans. The Arch will stand as a testimony to years of artistic, political and economic exchanges between India and Mexico. The Arch is part of a passage way connecting two plazas or courtyards, separating the living quarters of priests, soldiers and nobles. Its facade is decorated with mouldings, pillars; the niches and corners display masques representing Chaac, the God of Rain.
