THE 20TH direct descendant of Christopher Columbus will follow his ancestor's footsteps and visit Jamaica next week.
His Grace Cristobal Colon de Carvajal will begin his week-long visit on Monday, July 19. His stay will include a boat tour of Port Royal next Tuesday; visits to St. Ann's historical sites with links to Spain as well as a wreath laying ceremony at the statue of his ancestor. He will also receive the Keys to the city of Spanish Town, a citation from Mayor of Kingston Desmond McKenzie and will be the honoured guest at a reception hosted by Spanish Ambassador to Jamaica Rafael Jover.
TITLES
Columbus I was given the title of Grand Admiral of the Open Sea and Governor of the Indies. These titles have been maintained through time so the current descendant holds them. Colon, (the Spanish form of Columbus) is also Duke of Veragua (an area in modern-day Panama) and Marquis of Jamaica. These honours were ordered by Emperor Carlos I of Spain to heirs of the great navigator.
Colon, like his ancient relative, is a professional sailor and has served as an officer onboard several vessels and was a naval pilot.
