From the start of the 16th century until its midpoint, the Brazilian coast saw frequent passages and incursions by Spanish navigators, either en route to the Antilles and Venezuela or searching for a passage to the Pacific and the Moluccas. The Moluccas, now known as the Maluku archipelago, are a […]
European interest in and conflict over Brazilwood in the 16th and 17th centuries. This chapter examines the exploitation and trade of Brazilwood along the Brazilian coast during the early years of colonisation. It highlights the commercial practices of the Portuguese, the significant involvement of French shipowners, and the repressive measures […]
The Portuguese expedition to Brazil in 1503: discoveries, controversies and developments. Several printed and handwritten sources from the early 16^(th) century — many of which are attributed to Amerigo Vespucci — describe a second Portuguese expedition to Brazil between 1503 and 1504, in which the Florentine navigator is said to […]
The captains of Pedro Álvares Cabral’s fleet proposed sending an expedition to explore the new land further. In 1501, King Manuel accepted the proposal and organised three ships for the mission. The main objective was to explore the newly discovered land in greater detail. This involved recognising and mapping the […]
The Portuguese intention behind Cabral’s discovery of Brazil. Some historians debate whether it was Spanish sailors or the Portuguese who first sighted the lands of Brazil. Even without documentary evidence, French writers claimed French precedence regarding the voyage of a certain Jean Cousin in 1488. However, the Brazilians Ramiz Galvão […]
Although the Spanish navigator Vicente Yánez Pinzón is considered to have discovered Brazil first, according to the Treaty of Tordesillas, the official discovery is attributed to the Portuguese explorer Pedro Álvares Cabral. We will now study his voyage. 1. The Expedition Upon receiving news of Vasco da Gama’s successful voyage […]
Spanish exploration of the South American coast between 1499 and 1500: Ojeda, Pinzón, and Diogo de Lepe. Following the discovery of America by Christopher Columbus, who was working for the Kingdoms of Castile and León, a series of maritime explorations of the New World began. Christopher Columbus was the first […]
Naturism at Tambaba Beach: A Unique Experience Tambaba Beach is located in the municipality of Conde, on the Litoral Sul of Paraíba, about 35 km from João Pessoa. In addition to being one of the most beautiful beaches in the state, it is also one of the best-known naturist destinations […]
Attempts to define the meridian of the Treaty of Tordesillas. 1. The context and structure of the Treaty. The Treaty of Tordesillas stipulated that the demarcation of the 370 leagues west of Cape Verde would be carried out by pilots, astrologers and sailors from both parties. Within ten months of […]
The Treaty of Tordesillas (1494) divided overseas territories. 1. Context King John II protested to the Roman Curia and neighbouring kings who benefited from the bulls issued by Alexander VI. He sent agents to Spain to propose a new dividing line for the overseas territories that was less harmful than […]
The bulls of Alexander VI and the dispute between Spain and Portugal over the new lands (1493). This text explains the papal bulls issued by Alexander VI in 1493, particularly Inter caetera, Eximie devotionis and Dudum siquidem, and their influence on the dispute between Spain and Portugal over the newly […]
Explore the beaches of Fernando de Noronha with this practical guide, which provides access information, details of trails and the best spots for snorkelling and surfing. It also offers conservation guidelines and local tips for enjoying the island safely while respecting nature. Video about the beaches of Fernando de Noronha. […]
1 — Ratifications of Portuguese expansion by the Holy See 1. Context and authority of the Holy See In the Middle Ages and early Modern Age, the Holy See occupied a position superior to other Christian nations. As a supranational authority, its moral influence was recognised and reaffirmed — including […]
A selection of the 15 most famous beaches and coastal destinations in Bahia, bringing together essential information about characteristics (swimming, surfing, natural pools, cliffs), infrastructure (kiosks, inns, nightlife), access and practical tips on getting around during high season — ideal for choosing between tourist, rustic or ecotourism options. 1. Porto […]
Accommodation options in João Pessoa: neighbourhoods, beaches, and pros and cons João Pessoa, Paraíba offers accommodation to suit all tastes — from hotels and guesthouses by the sea to apartments in residential neighbourhoods. In this guide, you will find an overview of the city’s main neighbourhoods and beaches, with the […]
This text brings together and compares the main types of ships used by Portuguese navigators in the 15th and 16th centuries — nau, caravel (and its variants) and galleon — highlighting their construction characteristics, types of sails, operational functions and uses in exploration, trade and warfare. Reading it allows us […]
Choosing where to stay in Fortaleza depends on the type of trip, your budget and the activities you’ve planned. The capital of Ceará offers hotels, guesthouses, apartments and resorts in very different areas: there are neighbourhoods that are ideal for a stroll along the seafront, areas with a lively nightlife, […]
Discover the must-see beaches of the Alagoas coast, organised in ascending order of distance from Maceió (reference: Praça Dois Leões / Ponta Verde). Options range from urban convenience to rustic landscapes and natural pools — choose according to the time you have available and your preference for comfort, sightseeing or […]
The Age of Discovery transformed Portugal into a maritime power whose nautical knowledge had a profound impact on world history. This text examines the technical and scientific advances — navigational instruments, charts, route maps, cosmographers and types of vessels — that made it possible to cross oceans and explore new […]
If you are looking for accommodation in Maceió, you should know that the city’s most famous beach is Pajuçara, known for its rafts that take you to natural pools, its craft market, its central location and its wide range of hotels and restaurants. Choosing the best place to stay depends […]
The Rio Vermelho neighbourhood is Salvador’s main hub for bohemian life and dining, bringing together bars, restaurants, acarajé stalls, small
The history of Lençóis, in Bahia, begins with diamond mining. The origins of the town are linked to the discoveries made in 1844 in Mucugê and
Ponta de Humaitá is one of the most charming spots in Salvador, situated near Monte Serrat Fort on the Itapagipe peninsula. With a stunning view of
A practical guide to things to do in Pelourinho: Baroque churches, museums, squares, a suggested itinerary and tips for making the most of
The beaches of Salvador, Bahia, offer 50 km of coastline with something for everyone: beaches with calm waters perfect for families, reefs that form
Arembepe is a charming village on the north coast of Bahia, around 42 km from Salvador. Known for its historic Hippie Village, the Tamar Project site
Salvador, the capital of Bahia, is a vibrant city where history, Afro-Brazilian culture, music and beaches come together — the perfect setting for
Bahia Maritime Museum: what you need to know before visiting Housed within the iconic Barra Lighthouse, the Bahia Maritime Museum is one of
