It was under the name of Christopher Columbus that the man who discovered America, in the late fifteenth century, was known in the world. In the 80s, a new discussion about the nationality of the navigator emerges, through the works of Mascarenhas Barreto. This author has pioneered a new perspective: Christopher Colon would not only be portuguese but also from Cuba of Alentejo!
In October 2006, a bronze statue of Columbus was built and placed in front of the Court’s building, in the center of the town.
Christopher Colon, the navigator born in Cuba:
Was the navigator Christopher Colon born in Cuba of Alentejo? The thesis, somewhat surprising for those used to the official version has some supporters, among which is the researcher Mascarenhas Barreto. The controversy promises to spread, as the navigator was officially born in Genoa, Italy. Somehow strange was the fact that he was received by the Catholic Kings of Spain and our King John II as a noble, being him from humble origins. Some of those strange facts begin with his name: Cristoforo Colombo, Cristobal Colón or Cristovão Colom. What was his real name? The assumptions made from Mascarenhas Barreto were based on fifteen years of research.
The belief that the navigator, Salvador Fernandes Zarco, was born in Cuba has intrigued many people, who have come to Cuba. In 2011 the Center Christopher Colon was opened to the public. There you can find a collection of paintings, books and maps, which aim to state the truth of this thesis.
Get more information at: www.amigosdacuba.no.sapo.pt
