Castillo Monumento Colomares, Castle monument in Benalmádena, Spain
Castillo Monumento Colomares is a monument in Benalmádena that blends Byzantine, Gothic, Romanesque, and Moorish Revival architectural styles. The structure combines these varied building traditions into a multi-level composition featuring towers, arches, and ornamental details.
Dr. Esteban Martín Martín built this monument between 1987 and 1994 with two masons as a tribute to Christopher Columbus. The construction reflects a desire to honor the historical voyage and its impact on Spanish maritime heritage.
The monument displays representations of Columbus's three ships throughout its structure: La Niña positioned at the top, La Pinta on the main facade, and the Santa María elsewhere. These vessels are woven into the architectural design and tell the story of the voyage of discovery.
The site sits on hilly terrain with stairs and multiple levels to explore. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and allow time to discover the various rooms and chambers throughout the structure.
Inside the monument sits the world's smallest church, measuring just a few square meters and functioning as a sacred space. Adjacent to it stands a Gothic rose window mausoleum designed as a quiet memorial.
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