Back in 1990 I was corresponding with a researcher and DNA expert from California who wanted to do this with the bones here in Santo Domingo. I talked with the authorities (1992 was just around the corner) and suggested that they talked with the Ph D and MD from California.
I was told in no uncertain terms that "the bones of Columbus are here." No more no less.
They are not willing to risk it. It means too much. So they do what Obama does and stonewalls the issue (Fast and Furious???)
One thing is certain. Those who have seen the bones know that only bones from the lower body are in Santo Domingo. No spinal column, ribs, skull or arms... I jokingly tell my students, "we got the butt end and Spain kept the head"
But there is a possible explanation, and perhaps some lucky researcher will find it: In medieval-renaissance times there was a possibility to bury a person in two (or more) places by obtaining a "despensa"...Since the Admiral had expressed a wish to be buried in Santo Domingo, this could well have been done, and there is probably a paper somewhere with this dispensation written on it....At least this would explain the "why"...
Lots of luck trying to get Dom Rep officials to pull off something scientific!!
HB
