500 Yeads Old Shipwreck From Vasco Da Gama’s Final Voyage Into The Indian Ocean Found

Archaeologists may have uncovered the shipwreck of São Jorge, a vessel from Vasco da Gama’s final voyage into the Indian Ocean.

The wreck, located on a coral reef off Malindi, Kenya, has sparked global interest. Researchers believe it sank over 500 years ago during Da Gama’s historic journey.

Artefacts recovered include elephant tusks, copper ingots, and hull timbers, suggesting a strong connection to Portuguese trade in the Indian Ocean.

Vasco da Gama was the first to chart a sea route linking Europe and Africa, opening the gateway to Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean trade.

The São Jorge, part of Da Gama’s 1524 fleet of 20 vessels, sank before his death that year. Could this be one of the earliest shipwrecks in the Indian Ocean?

To confirm its identity, archaeologists plan extensive surveys of coral reefs stretching 25 km from Malindi to Ras Ngomeni Cape.

The discovery highlights the Portuguese mastery of galleon construction—ships built for exploration and war that shaped European expansion.

If proven, this shipwreck could rewrite history, revealing more about Vasco da Gama’s final voyage and the age of Portuguese exploration.