07/08/2025
Port-of-Spain Corporation Removes Christopher Columbus Statue:
Following extensive discussions and technical assessment, the Port-of-Spain Corporation successfully removed the Christopher Columbus statue last night from Independence Square. The exercise commenced at approximately 10PM on August 6th, 2025 to minimise traffic disruption in the Capital City.
The exercise was planned following an on-site technical assessment and further consultation on August 5th, 2025 at the Ethelbert “Telly” Paul Council Chamber at City Hall. It was determined that the statue should be removed first, followed by the remaining parts of the monument. The discussions included representatives from several key stakeholder organisations including the Santa Rosa First People's Community, the Warao First People, the Caribbean Freedom Project, the National Trust and the Emancipation Support Committee TT.
Under the careful guidance of Heritage Architect Rudylynn DeFour-Roberts, the monument was safely removed. It is now in the care of the National Trust. As announced by Mayor Alleyne on August 1st, 2025, the statue will be made available to the National Museum and Art Gallery.
This exercise represents Phase 1 of the monument's removal. Further technical assessments will be conducted to determine the best way to safely remove the remaining parts of the monument.
(Here are a few snapshots from last night) 📷
