Flemish nobleman from Picardy (Jean d'Esmenaut) who settled in Funchal around 1480 and became one of Madeira's richest sugar planters at the Lombada da Ponta do Sol, where he died in 1536. He founded the Esmeraldo entails and is remembered for his link with Christopher Columbus's stay on the island.
2 · Chronology
1480148014901500151015201520
c. 1480
João Esmeraldo, from Picardy, arrived in Funchal.
13 August 1511
King Manuel confirmed João Esmeraldo's noble privileges.
16 May 1520
João Esmeraldo was granted arms and made a nobleman of the royal household.
