The Portuguese Discoveries encompass one of the most important periods in Portuguese History, and certainly the most universally impacting one. It remains as one of the most important contributions to the rise of the modern world, transforming the world’s oceans from barriers to accessways.
Ever since Classical Antiquity, Europe had lived within the same geographical constraints. The Mediterranean was the centre of the known world, and the Atlantic was nothing more than a physical and mental barrier few dared to cross.
In the fifteenth century, however, Portugal began a process of expansion towards the sea. In order to face the growing challenges that arose during Portuguese exploratory voyages, newer and sturdier ships were required, as well as innovative astronomical navigation skills and techniques.
The different oceans of the world were explored, and new commercial connections were created with distant peoples. The Portuguese Discoveries helped create a new reality, one that was, for the first time in human history, on a worldwide scale. Thus, one of the first and most important steps towards Globalization was taken through one of the most fascinating aspects of world history: the Portuguese maritime adventure!