In 1492 Christopher Columbus set off to discover the New World, which led to more profound world changes than the Apollo programme and landing on the moon 500 years later. Columbus believed he could reach India by sailing west. He discussed the possibility with two monks at the La Rabida monastery. One was an astronomer, who thought the idea was feasible. The other monk was the Confessor to Queen Isabella, and able to present her with the idea and enlisted her help. She provided three caravels the Niña, the Pinta and the Santa Maria. Before setting sail, Columbus left his ten year old son under the care of the monks, as it was uncertain whether he would return from his dangerous mission! The rest, as they say, is history.
Visit La Rabida monastery, near Huelva, where the plans were made. Go to the little harbour at La Rabida (near Huelva, close to the Portuguese border) where there is a little harbour with replicas of the caravels. You can explore them. See for yourself how uncomfortable life was on board then! It is extraordinary what risks people are willing to take!
As the journey from my place is about 7 or 8 hours, make a mini-holiday of it, and see other places on the way. It's worth taking several days over the trip. Take time to see magnificent Sevilla and Jerez en route. BUT avoid going in summer when the weather is unbearably hot!
Visit La Rabida monastery, near Huelva, where the plans were made. Go to the little harbour at La Rabida (near Huelva, close to the Portuguese border) where there is a little harbour with replicas of the caravels. You can explore them. See for yourself how uncomfortable life was on board then! It is extraordinary what risks people are willing to take!
As the journey from my place is about 7 or 8 hours, make a mini-holiday of it, and see other places on the way. It's worth taking several days over the trip. Take time to see magnificent Sevilla and Jerez en route. BUT avoid going in summer when the weather is unbearably hot!
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