- Location: Columbus Park, Buenos Aires
- Sculptor: Arnaldo Zocci
- Years of construction: 1910-1921.
- Pedestal height: 19 m
- Sculpture height: 7 m
In the historical district of Buenos Aires there is one of the important sights of the city - the monument to Christopher Columbus. This elegant statue is seen from different parts of the park, where it is located. The history of this sculpture is of great interest to tourists. Therefore, no sightseeing tour does not pass without a stop near the famous monument.
History of creation
The monument to Christopher Columbus in 1907 was a gift from the Italian community in Argentina . Such a "souvenir" the city received in honor of the centenary of the May Revolution. At that time, a serious contest was held between famous architects, and Arnaldo Zocci won it. After the development of the monument, a fundraising was announced among wealthy families, but many others joined it, who also supported the idea of erecting the monument. In 1910, the first stone was laid, and construction was completed in 1921.
General information
The height of the Columbus monument in general is equal to 26 m, and the weight - 623 tons. The sight is made entirely of Carrara marble, which was mined in a career for several hundred kilometers. Transportation of the stone was quite complicated, so it took a very long time to build. In order for the monument to stand securely, the builders have installed a foundation of more than 6 m in depth, and it still perfectly withstands the solid weight of the monument.
The last restoration of the monument was held in 2013.
Sculptures and their meaning
At the very top of the monument is a sculpture of a great historical figure - Christopher Columbus. She depicts the seafarer watching the horizon in the east side. At the foot of the monument is a whole group of other sculptures, symbolizing Faith, Justice, History, Theory and Will. These images were taken from the lines of the Gospel and became a symbol of the Catholic Church in America.
In front of the pedestal, the dates of Columbus's first voyage and the discovery of America are stamped out. On the western side is a small sculpture of a woman with a cross and blindfolded, which symbolizes the goal of creating faith in the new lands. In the southern part of the monument, a little below all sculptures, there is an entrance to a small crypt. At the time of construction it was designed for the historic underground museum, but this idea remained unfinished, so you can only admire the beautifully painted entrance doors.
How to get there?
The monument to Christopher Columbus is located in the park of the same name, opposite the palace of Casa Rosada . You can reach this place by metro (station in the block from the sights) or by car along Avenida La Rábida.