We have already explored Cadiz and it’s connections to Christopher Columbus but we were also interested to learn more about his trips from Spain to “The West Indies”.

Here in Huelva province is a small coastal area called La Rabida, where we learned that the flotilla of three ships left the small port of Palos de La Frontera and headed across the ocean, after being blessed by the Spanish King and the Pope, finally reaching what is now known as Dominican Republic after 89 days at sea.

The historic route and the ships were recreated to commemorate the 500th anniversary, Columbus sailed in 1492; the Spanish Government rebuilt the ships to size to also learn more about the shipbuilding methods and the original environment that might have been experienced, and recreated the arduous journey before finally mooring them permanently at La Rabida, where many of the original sailors were born. Columbus was hailed as a hero on his return (many, including Marco Polo, had gone before but not returned) and his return subsequently opened trading lines between the two continents.

It certainly was a fascinating exhibition, excellent value for money (€3,60 each entry) and amazingly well presented!

In Huelva itself were several references to Mr Columbus, as well as some beautiful buildings! A traditional yet modern town, we will return and explore more.

Maps of Columbus’s first route, and the next three! He returned in 1504.

I wondered how many boys it took to complete a jigsaw; now I know!! Team work was amazing; they didn’t speak English and David didn’t speak enough Spanish but they worked it through!

Some views of Huelva town, a mix of modern and older buildings.

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