The Secretaría de Cultura del Gobierno de México and the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes y Literatura (INBAL) awarded the prestigious Medalla Bellas Artes to the architect and UIA Past President Sara Topelson on 25 September in the Sala Manuel M. Ponce.
This award, the highest recognition given by the Mexican government for contributions to architecture and the preservation of Mexican architectural heritage, celebrates Topelson’s outstanding career and impact. Sara Topelson served as a UIA Council Member for Region III from 1990 to 1993, Vice-President from 1993 to 1996 and was UIA President from 1996 to 1999, demonstrating her leadership on both a national and global scale.
During the ceremony, Lucina Jiménez López, Director General of INBAL, emphasised the importance of recognising those who have shaped architecture and restoration in Mexico, alongside their commitment to conserving cultural and architectural legacies.
Sara Topelson’s contributions extend far beyond architecture. As a pioneer in urban design and planning, she has played a vital role in training new generations of professionals and promoting inclusive and sustainable architecture. In her acceptance speech, Topelson highlighted her work in creating over 4,600 public spaces, always with the aim of improving the quality of life for citizens. She believes that architecture, cities, and urbanism should be at the heart of public policies and discussions.
This award symbolises the profound respect and admiration for her invaluable contributions to Mexican architecture and heritage.