What Is Columbus Pointing at in Barcelona?

By Alice Nichols

Have you ever heard of the famous Columbus Monument in Barcelona? It’s a towering statue of Christopher Columbus pointing towards the sea.

But have you ever wondered what he’s pointing at? Let’s dive into the history and mystery behind this iconic monument.

The History Behind the Monument

The Columbus Monument, also known as Mirador de Colón, was built in honor of Christopher Columbus and his discovery of America. The monument was constructed for the World Exposition held in Barcelona in 1888, and it took almost six years to complete. It stands tall at 197 feet (60 meters) and is located at the lower end of La Rambla, a popular street in Barcelona.

The Sculptor Behind the Monument

The sculptor behind this magnificent monument is Rafael Atché. He was commissioned by the City Council to create a statue that would represent Columbus’ arrival to America. Atché created a statue of Columbus standing on top of a globe, pointing towards the sea with his right hand.

What Is Columbus Pointing at?

There are different theories about what Columbus is pointing at with his right hand. Some believe that he’s pointing towards America, which he discovered during his first voyage in 1492. Others argue that he’s pointing towards his hometown of Genoa, Italy.

However, there’s another theory that suggests that Columbus is not actually pointing at anything specific but rather showing an open-handed gesture towards the world. This theory aligns with Atché’s original intention for creating the monument, which was to celebrate Columbus’ spirit of discovery and adventure.

The Base of the Monument

The base of the monument is equally impressive as it features eight bronze bas-reliefs depicting scenes from Columbus’ life and journey to America. These reliefs were also created by Atché and showcase important moments such as Columbus meeting Queen Isabella and King Ferdinand, and his arrival to the New World.

Visiting the Monument

The Columbus Monument is open to the public, and visitors can take an elevator ride to the top of the monument for breathtaking views of Barcelona. It’s also a popular spot for tourists to take photos, especially with Columbus pointing towards the sea in the background.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while there are different theories about what Columbus is pointing at on top of the monument in Barcelona, it’s clear that he represents a spirit of adventure and discovery that has inspired generations. The monument serves as a reminder of his legacy and contributions to history. So next time you’re in Barcelona, don’t forget to check out this iconic landmark!