Three antique monumental clocks located on main streets in the Historic Center of San Cristóbal de las Casas remain abandoned, deteriorated, and out of service, despite being part of the city’s urban and historical heritage.
These structures, which for decades served as landmarks for residents and visitors, now appear dirty, damaged, and out of order. They are located in areas with high pedestrian and vehicular traffic, where for many years people used to check the time as they passed by.
According to city residents, the clocks have not received maintenance for more than three decades. Currently, one of the few visible elements they retain is the inscription “Everything in Chiapas is Mexico,” placed there during the 1970s.
Despite the passage of various municipal, state, and federal administrations, no intervention has yet been undertaken to restore these structures, which are part of the collective memory of the people of San Cristóbal. Citizens believe that there are specialists with the technical capacity to rehabilitate them and return them to working order.
In an interview, an architect from San Cristóbal explained that the primary responsibility for their preservation lies with the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), due to their historical value. However, he noted that a considerable investment is required to carry out their complete restoration or, if necessary, replace the damaged mechanisms.
Therefore, he called on local authorities to secure the necessary resources and procedures to rescue these historical pieces, considered a treasure for the people of San Cristóbal.
The three clocks are located on Insurgentes Avenue. The first is in front of the ADO bus terminal, at the corner of Juan Sabines Gutiérrez Boulevard; the second is in front of the Santa Lucía Church; and the third is in front of the candy and crafts market.
Each structure is approximately seven meters tall. Although precise records of their origin are unavailable, it is known that they were brought from France during the 18th century, around 1780. Over time, one of the clocks malfunctioned due to wear and tear, so another mechanism was acquired from Spain.
“More than 33 years ago, residents of San Cristóbal de las Casas used these clocks to check the time as they passed through the area. Unfortunately, they have been forgotten. They need repair or replacement of their mechanisms, and it is important that the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) not abandon this historical relic,” said local residents.
The community believes that restoring these historic clocks would not only preserve part of San Cristóbal de las Casas’ cultural heritage but also strengthen the identity and tourist appeal of one of Chiapas’ most emblematic destinations.
Source: oem
