MEXICO CITY.- A historic 18th-century landmark in Mexico City's Chapultepec Park is getting a new lease on life. The Belén Fountain, a key piece of the city's old aqueduct system, is set to undergo a major restoration to repair decades of damage and restore it to its original form and location.

The project is a collaborative effort between Mexico's Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). Known also as the Belén Gatehouse, the monument was built between 1755 and 1760 and once supplied water to the capital. Over the years, it was moved and modified, suffering significant damage—particularly from the devastating earthquake in 1985—that left it with fractures, sinking foundations, and crumbling stonework.

"This intervention is viable and represents a great opportunity for its rescue," said INAH specialists, who have already completed a detailed 3D survey of the monument.

The restoration plan is ambitious, calling for the fountain to be carefully relocated to its original orientation. This move will not only correct past changes but also allow for a complete restructuring of its base to prevent future sinking. The project is being carried out as part of a larger rehabilitation of the nearby Chapultepec transportation hub.

Officials are confident that the restoration will not only save the fountain from further decay but also "allow it to continue being a heritage landmark for present and future generations." Once the final plans are approved, INAH will provide technical and specialized support, ensuring the project honors the fountain's rich history and cultural value.