About Domenico Colombo
Lived 1418 – 1497 (aged 78–79). Domenico Colombo was an explorer, businessperson and merchant.
Domenico Colombo (; ; 1March 14181496) was a Genoese weaver, wool merchant, cheesemaker, and tavern keeper. He was the father of Christopher Columbus and Bartholomew Columbus.
Biography Domenico was born in 1418. He was the son of Giovanni Colombo and Angela Fontana. He had three brothers: Franceschino, Giacomo, and Bertino.
His father apprenticed him to the loom at age 11. Domenico, a third-generation master of his craft in Genoa, Republic of Genoa, was also a shopkeeper. His position was secure and respectable within the lower middle class, although he experienced financial difficulties during his life.
In addition to weaving, Domenico worked as a cheesemaker, tavern keeper, and dealer in wool and wine. He married Susanna Fontanarossa.
Domenico and Susanna had five children: Cristoforo (Christopher), born in 1451; Giovanni Pellegrino; Bartolomeo; Giacomo (also called Diego); and Bianchinetta.
After encountering financial difficulties, Domenico received financial assistance from Christopher. Two of his sons, Bartholomew and Christopher, later pursued careers at sea rather than continuing the family weaving business.
Domenico's daughter-in-law was Filipa Moniz Perestrelo. His grandchildren included Diego Columbus and Ferdinand Columbus. He also had one natural granddaughter, Maria.
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Important facts
Family & relationships
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Domenico Colombo's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Domenico Colombo?
father of Christopher Columbus (1418–1496)
When was Domenico Colombo born?
Domenico Colombo was born on 1 March 1418 in Genoa.
When did Domenico Colombo die?
Domenico Colombo died in 1497 in Genoa.
What was Domenico Colombo's occupation?
Domenico Colombo was an explorer, businessperson and merchant.
What nationality was Domenico Colombo?
Domenico Colombo's recorded nationality: Republic of Genoa.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Domenico Colombo. https://biography.guide/domenico-colombo/
MLA: "Domenico Colombo." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/domenico-colombo/.
Chicago: "Domenico Colombo." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/domenico-colombo/.
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