New DNA evidence is challenging long-held beliefs about Christopher Columbus. Researchers say evidence now points to a possible connection between the explorer and a noble family from Galicia in northwestern Spain. The findings add a scientific dimension to a debate that has continued for centuries.
Study examines descendants from the Gelves crypt
The research forms part of a project that began in March 2022, when scientists exhumed remains from a family crypt in Gelves, near Seville. The site contains individuals believed to be direct descendants of Columbus.
A team from the Citogen laboratory and the Complutense University of Madrid analyzed DNA samples from 12 individuals to trace possible lineage connections.
Unexpected DNA link reveals missing ancestor
The investigation identified a genetic link between two individuals with no documented family connection. One was Jorge Alberto de Portugal, a great-great-grandson of Columbus.
The other was María de Castro Girón de Portugal, a 17th-century countess consort who entered the family through marriage. Researchers say such a match suggests a shared ancestor not recorded in historical documents.
Computational model points to Pedro Madruga
To identify the missing link, researchers applied a computational model across 16 generations. Their analysis pointed to Pedro Álvarez de Sotomayor, a 15th-century Galician nobleman.
When he was removed from the model using a “virtual knock-out” technique, the genetic connection disappeared. No other ancestor produced the same result.
Advanced sequencing strengthens genetic findings
The genetic analysis was led by Isabel Navarro-Vera, who used massively parallel sequencing to examine more than 10,000 genetic markers. The method allowed researchers to study ancient DNA in greater detail than previously possible.
Linguistic and historical clues support the theory
Additional evidence supports the Galician origin theory. Linguistic analysis shows that Columbus’s writings contain structures typical of Galician-Portuguese. His coat of arms also features golden bands associated with the Sotomayor family.
Some historians suggest his early treatment at court indicates he may have been known to elites.
Debate remains unresolved despite new evidence
Despite these findings, the Genoese origin remains the dominant view. Columbus stated in a 1498 document that he was born in Genoa, a claim many historians still consider decisive.
Researchers caution that the new study is based on indirect evidence and has not yet been peer-reviewed. Further analysis and independent verification are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
For now, the origins of Columbus remain unresolved, even as modern genetic tools continue to reshape the investigation.
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