Off the coast of Madagascar, a shipwreck filled with history and gold lies in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Researchers believe they have identified a Portuguese ship plundered by pirates in 1721, revealing a little-known chapter of the golden age of piracy.
This discovery is the result of sixteen years of archaeological investigation by an American team. The ship, named Nossa Senhora do Cabo, was carrying immense wealth from the Portuguese colonies in India before falling into the hands of legendary buccaneers.
Archaeological research has revealed wooden hull frames of the Nossa Senhora do Cabo.
Image credit: Center for Historic Shipwreck Preservation A shipwreck steeped in history
The wreck lies near Nosy Boraha Island, a former pirate stronghold called Île Sainte-Marie in the 18th century. Structural analyses and recovered artifacts confirm its identity, according to researchers from the Center for Historic Shipwreck Preservation. Among the excavated objects are religious ivory statuettes and fragments of a crucifix.
Records indicate the ship left Goa in 1721 carrying the Viceroy of Portugal and the Archbishop of the colony. Caught in a storm, it became easy prey for pirates led by Olivier Levasseur, nicknamed "La Buse" (The Buzzard). The loot, estimated at $138 million in today's value, included gold, pearls, and sacred objects.
Image credit: Center for Historic Shipwreck Preservation A multifaceted treasure
The religious artifacts, made in Goa, testify to cultural exchanges between India and Europe. An ivory plaque bearing the inscription "INRI" (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews) particularly caught researchers' attention. These pieces were meant to reach Lisbon, but their journey was interrupted by the pirate attack.
The fate of the passengers remains partly mysterious. While the Viceroy was released for ransom, the destiny of the Archbishop and the 200 Mozambican slaves onboard remains unknown. Researchers hope future excavations will shed light on these unanswered questions.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND