Wreckage Found in Kenya Could Belong to Vasco da Gama’s Ship

Researchers believe that the remains of a shipwreck discovered off the coast of Kenya in 2013 might be linked to the renowned Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama. The wreckage is suspected to be the São Jorge, a vessel that sank in 1524, the same year Vasco da Gama passed away, likely due to malaria in India.

The discovery was made by archaeologists Caesar Bita and Filipe Castro and has only recently been connected to the famous navigator. The wreck lies at a shallow depth of just 6 meters and is being protected by the local community, which actively participates in the community archaeology project preserving the site. Further investigations are planned to confirm the ship’s origin.

The Legacy of Vasco da Gama

Born in 1460, Vasco da Gama was instrumental in opening a direct maritime route between Europe and India in 1498 by rounding the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of Africa. This achievement was crucial in establishing Portuguese dominance in the lucrative spice trade and expanding their colonial empire.

Vasco da Gama also played a strategic role in the early voyages of the Portuguese Empire to the East. In 1524, he was appointed Viceroy of India but died shortly afterward, leaving a legacy as one of the most prominent navigators of the Age of Discovery.

Portuguese Shipbuilding in the Era of Exploration

From 1513 onward, Portugal began designing ships capable of handling both military operations and navigation across the Indian and Pacific Oceans. If the wreck is confirmed to be the São Jorge, it could provide valuable insights into Portuguese naval engineering of the time and the history of the great maritime explorations.

Researchers remain hopeful that further studies will uncover the secrets of this shipwreck, shedding light on Vasco da Gama’s fleet and its role in shaping the era of Portuguese maritime expansion.

About The Author