Monterrey has done something very interesting. Near the center of the city was an old iron smelter where they processed iron ore into steel. With changes in technology the plant became outmoded and stood empty for many years.
The city took the old iron mill and turned it into a park and it is amazing.
They actually created a river that flows from the park to Barrior Antigua (Old Town) and have boats carry visitors along this river. The river is lined on both sides with fountains and various types of art.
More on this fountain (sort of) at the bottom of the blog.
This is a hill side with 5201 statues representing those who have immigrated from Mexico to other countries (primarily the US) and those that have died in the process.
The hotel that I stay at is adjacent to the park.
For security the park is patrolled by police on one these. Very cool.
There is also a small Ward just a 15 minute walk through the park. Everything was in Spanish, but it still worked.
The smoke stacks from the iron mill have become a symbol of Monterrey very much like the Alamo in San Antonio, Golden Gate Bridge in SF. You can actually take a tour that shows how the old foundry worked.
A boat full of nuns. I know that there is a joke in here somewhere.
In the park there are some nice play areas for the kids
The following is a video on one of the weird fountains.Monterrey, Mexico; a great city, with great food and great people!
