Else Beekman
The mystery surrounding Christopher Columbus’ origins appears closer to being solved. After more than two decades of investigation, the documentary Colón ADN. Su verdadero origen has confirmed that he was not Genoese or Italian, but a Spanish Sephardic Jew.
The findings indicate that Columbus was likely born in the Mediterranean region or the Balearic Islands, which were part of the Crown of Aragon at the time.
This conclusion was reached after extensive DNA analysis of Columbus’ remains, which are buried in Seville Cathedral, as well as those of his son Hernando. The study, led by forensic expert José Antonio Lorente from the University of Granada, has definitively ruled out other theories about his origins, including claims that he was from Genoa, Portugal, Galicia, or even France.
DNA confirms Sephardic Jewish origins
The research points to Columbus having Jewish roots. The DNA tests showed markers compatible with a Sephardic Jewish lineage. This aligns with theories long held by scholars such as Francesc Albardaner, who believed he belonged to a Jewish family of silk weavers from Valencia. According to Albardaner, Columbus hid his Jewish identity due to fear of persecution following the 1492 expulsion of Jews from Spain.
Further supporting this theory, Columbus consistently wrote in Castilian Spanish in his letters, including those addressed to a bank in Genoa, with no Italian influence in his writings. This linguistic evidence, combined with DNA results, led researchers to conclude that Columbus likely originated from the western Mediterranean region of Spain, possibly the Balearic Islands.
Columbus’ Jewish connections
Historians believe Columbus was aided by Jewish converts, such as the Duke of Medinaceli and financier Luis de Santángel, who helped him gain access to the Spanish court to present his plans for the New World. The study highlights how Columbus’ Jewish heritage might have played a significant role in his life and the backing he received for his voyages.