Imagine walking through historic streets, surrounded by medieval sounds, while the smell of the sea fills the air and the hot late summer sun warms your skin. The blue sky and the gentle Atlantic breeze join the 15th-century décor to create the perfect setting for an island full of history and tradition. This is Porto Santo during the Columbus Festival — a plunge into the waters of the past, where for three days the island is transformed into a living tribute to the arrival of Christopher Columbus.
A Journey Through Time
The Columbus Festival isn't just an event, it's a time machine that takes us directly to the 15th century. For three days, the island breathes the customs and traditions of the time of the Discoveries, allowing all visitors to become history explorers. Porto Santo relives the golden age of navigator Christopher Columbus, who inhabited the archipelago and married Filipa Moniz, daughter of navigator and discoverer Bartolomeu Perestrelo, the first donee captain of the golden island, in an authentic setting where imagination meets the wealth of other times.
Walking through the streets decorated with flags and 15th-century artefacts, it's easy to get lost in the charm of medieval melodies and the joy of a conviviality that spans the centuries. This is more than a festival: is a portal to the past, celebrating not only the great navigations but also the vibrant culture of the time.
How is this Festival Celebrated?
Throughout these days, Porto Santo becomes a huge historical stage. 'Extras' wearing traditional costumes walk through the streets, bringing to life scenes that evoke the daily life of the time of the Discoveries. The party starts on the beach, but extends to the city streets, especially in the old town area.
The scenery is carefully planned to recreate the atmosphere of the time. Tents and military camps set up in the heart of the island imitate soldier and sailor camps in Columbus' time. There are activities on every corner: merchants selling their products, pirates roaming the streets in search of new adventures, and sailors telling tales of distant lands. Every detail is designed to take visitors on an epic journey, where the past becomes present.
The Arrival of Christopher Columbus at Porto Santo
The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly Columbus' arrival. Porto Santo beach becomes a real outdoor theatre, with hundreds of people gathered to witness the arrival of the famous navigator. From a distance, the replica of the Santa Maria ship approaches, bringing back memories of a time when the sea was still a great mystery.
When Columbus finally reaches the golden sand, the crowd applauds and the island celebrates. The procession takes to the streets, with music, colourful costumes and reenactments that bring the past back to life. It's a performance that involves not only the eyes but also the heart, taking us back to the moment when Porto Santo welcomed Columbus as one of its own.
Traditional markets
The adventure continues at the stalls scattered around Largo do Pelourinho and the streets below, where visitors can experience what it was like to go to the market 500 years ago and buy a variety of objects, from jewellery to clothing and home decoration. At the same time, musicians play medieval tunes, dancers show off exotic moves, and circus artists amaze youngsters with juggling and fire shows.
Exhibitions and Culture
Besides fun, the festival also offers an opportunity to learn more about the history of Porto Santo and the Portuguese discoveries. Exhibitions, talks and conferences provide a deeper insight into the life and voyages of Christopher Columbus. It's a fusion of entertainment and education that enriches the experience of all participants. The Columbus Festival is also the perfect opportunity to visit Casa Colombo – Porto Santo Museum, which was probably navigator Christopher Columbus' home when he passed through Porto Santo after marrying Filipa de Moniz.
Shows at Largo do Pelourinho and Praça do Barqueiro
In addition to the fun parades that invade the space and take us back to a time we didn't live in but wish we had known, the stages set up both in Largo do Pelourinho, in front of Porto Santo City Council, and in Praça do Barqueiro, next to the pier, also offer unmissable shows that leave no-one indifferent. You can expect a bit of everything in these two spaces: music concerts featuring instruments associated with the Middle Ages, such as the bagpipe and the flute, theatre plays, circus shows... It's a whole group of artists united to make this journey into the past as realistic as possible.
The Colombus Festival is an invitation to rediscover not only the history of Porto Santo, but also the essence of the explorer spirit that lives in each of us. It's not something to watch only, but to join and be part of. In addition to the festival, the island offers a multitude of wonders yet to discover.
From its tranquil golden beach to the trails that cross breathtaking landscapes, Porto Santo is a paradise that guarantees unforgettable adventures. Whether you're looking for relaxation or new experiences, this island has something for you all year round.
