Statue of Christopher Columbus, Bronze monument in Saint Paul, United States.
The Statue of Christopher Columbus was a three-meter bronze figure standing on a granite base at the Minnesota State Capitol grounds. It depicted the explorer dressed in period clothing typical of 15th-century adventurers.
Italian-American communities commissioned the statue, which was completed by sculptors Carlo Brioschi and Leo Lentelli and dedicated in 1931. It remained on the Capitol grounds until its removal in 2020.
The monument once symbolized the contributions of Italian-American communities in Minnesota. Its removal during social justice demonstrations in 2020 reflects how communities reconsider the meaning of historical sculptures.
The monument was located on the public grounds of the Minnesota State Capitol, making it easily accessible to visitors. The space around it often served as a gathering spot for public events and demonstrations.
The 1931 dedication ceremony was broadcast live by major radio networks across North America. This early use of broadcasting technology made the event reach an audience far beyond those present in person.
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