Could a shipwreck off the coast of Kenya be Vasco da Gama’s last ship?

A shipwreck near Malindi, Kenya, is being studied by an international team of archaeologists who believe it could be the remains of the São Jorge, a galleon linked to Vasco da Gama’s last voyage. The ship, which was discovered in 2013 on a coral reef 500 meters off the Kenyan coast, is believed to have sunk more than 500 years ago. Research led by experts from the University of Coimbra, the National Museum of Kenya and the Bergen Maritime Museum is underway to confirm its identity.

Historical significance of the shipwreck

In one paper published in the Journal of Maritime Archeology, researchers have described artifacts recovered from the site, including elephant tusks and copper bars, suggesting a Portuguese origin. The ship’s connection to Vasco da Gama, known as the first European to navigate around the southern tip of Africa to reach the Indian Ocean, has attracted particular interest. His last voyage in 1524, during which he died, marked the end of his extensive exploration efforts.

Challenges in identifying the ship

Researchers have described in their statements that the wreck is difficult to study due to its condition and its integration into the coral reef. Over the past decade, artifacts and wood fragments have been carefully removed from the site to be preserved for research.

The team, which includes F. Castro and J. Pissarra from the University of Coimbra, C. Bita from the National Museum of Kenya and B. Frabetti from the Bergen Maritime Museum, carried out careful excavations to extract planks from the ship’s hull.

Future plans for verification

The researchers plan to definitively identify the ship through further investigation. The team believes that confirming São Jorge’s status would contribute significantly to understanding the maritime history of the early 16th century. Researchers have noted the importance of such discoveries in shedding light on the global trade routes and exploration efforts of the time.