Learn more about the innovation that was the caravel and the role that it played in the history of Trans-Atlantic exploration.

Prince Henry, the Navigator of Portugal, and an important figure in maritime exploration journeyed out to the West African coast in the 1440s using a caravel. The humble caravel was used by the Portuguese and Spanish to carry goods across long routes. One pivotal invention made it possible to transport cargo across the oceans faster than other ships.Īs trade demands grew and more and more goods had to be transported, vessels like the caravel, that could withstand a lengthy expedition, became important. For 'God, Gold, and Glory' brave explorers like Christopher Columbus and Vasco de Gama faced uncharted waters and stormy seas to find the rich lands that had been habituated for millennia.ĭuring this period, every detail in a vessel was important in determining how fast one could get to the destination, how rough the journey would be, and how much freightage the ship would be able to hold. The people of the European nations left their home shores to discover what lay beyond the familiar land and waters. The age of exploration, or the age of discovery, was a monumental period in world history. Anyone using the information provided by Kidadl does so at their own risk and we can not accept liability if things go wrong. Kidadl cannot accept liability for the execution of these ideas, and parental supervision is advised at all times, as safety is paramount. We recommend that these ideas are used as inspiration, that ideas are undertaken with appropriate adult supervision, and that each adult uses their own discretion and knowledge of their children to consider the safety and suitability. Our recommended activities are based on age but these are a guide. We recognise that not all activities and ideas are appropriate and suitable for all children and families or in all circumstances. Kidadl provides inspiration to entertain and educate your children. We will always aim to give you accurate information at the date of publication - however, information does change, so it’s important you do your own research, double-check and make the decision that is right for your family. We try our very best, but cannot guarantee perfection. We strive to recommend the very best things that are suggested by our community and are things we would do ourselves - our aim is to be the trusted friend to parents. At Kidadl we pride ourselves on offering families original ideas to make the most of time spent together at home or out and about, wherever you are in the world.

The caraval