Monument to Columbus (Salamanca) facts for kids
| Monumento a Colón | |
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| Coordinates | 40°57′45″N 5°39′50″W / 40.962406°N 5.663876°W |
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| Location | Plaza de Colón, Salamanca, Spain |
| Designer | Eduardo Barrón |
| Material | Bronze, stone |
| Height | 3.30 m (statue) |
| Opening date | 9 September 1893 |
| Dedicated to | Christopher Columbus |
The Monument to Columbus (in Spanish: Monumento a Colón) is a famous statue located in Salamanca, Spain. This important monument honors Christopher Columbus, a well-known explorer. It stands proudly in the center of a square named Plaza de Colón, which means "Columbus Square."
Contents
History of the Columbus Monument
Why the Monument Was Built
The idea for this monument came about as part of a big celebration in Spain. People wanted to remember the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's first journey to the Americas. Many projects were started across the country to mark this special event.
The Statue's Design and Location
The statue of Columbus was created by a talented artist named Eduardo Barrón. It is made of bronze and stands very tall, reaching 3.30 meters (about 10.8 feet) high. The chosen spot for the monument was a square previously known as Plaza de los Menores. After the monument was built, the square became known as "Plaza de Colón." Building work on the monument began in 1892.
Details of the Pedestal
The statue stands on a strong stone base, called a pedestal. On the front of this pedestal, you can see the coat of arms of Salamanca. This is the official symbol of the city. Below the coat of arms, there is an important message carved into the stone. It says: "to Christopher Columbus in the 400th anniversary of the Discovery of the Americas. The State, the province and the municipality." This shows that the government, the local region, and the city all helped pay for the monument.
On the sides of the pedestal, there are two special carvings called reliefs. These reliefs show the faces of two important people: Diego de Deza and Isabella of Castile. They were both significant figures during Columbus's time.
Unveiling the Monument
The Monument to Columbus was officially shown to the public on September 9, 1893. It has stood in Salamanca ever since, reminding everyone of Christopher Columbus's historic voyages.
See also
- List of monuments and memorials to Christopher Columbus
In Spanish: Monumento a Colón (Salamanca) para niños
