May 1513 marked a turning point in maritime history when Jorge Álvares became the first European to reach China by sea. Sailing from Pegu under the command of Rui de Brito Patalim, he navigated a junk into the Pearl River Delta, establishing a presence that initiated commercial interest in the region during the Age of Discovery.
Arrival at Tamão
Upon reaching the southern coast of Guangdong, Álvares anchored at an island the Portuguese referred to as Tamão. While the exact geographical coordinates remain a subject of historical debate, scholars frequently point to Lantau Island or Lintin Island as the probable site of his landing. To signify the arrival, he erected a formal padrão on behalf of the King of Portugal, signaling an intent to engage in formal trade relations with local Chinese authorities.
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The expedition provided King Manuel I with essential observations regarding Chinese religion, culture, financial systems, and military capabilities. This data encouraged further ventures, including a subsequent expedition led by Rafael Perestrello, a cousin of Christopher Columbus, who arrived in Guangdong later in 1513. These initial movements served as the foundation for future European influence in the Pearl River Delta.
Final Years and Legacy
Álvares died on 8 July 1521 while stationed at Tamão. He passed away in the presence of his associate Duarte Coelho. Shortly after his death, the settlement faced military pressure from the Chinese navy, forcing the Portuguese to abandon the site and retreat to Malacca. Despite the eventual abandonment of his specific encampment, his efforts to secure commercial agreements are credited as the catalyst for the development of Macau.
Fast facts
- Born: 1401, Freixo de Espada à Cinta
- Died: 8 July 1521, Tamão
- Nationality: Kingdom of Portugal
- Primary Occupation: Explorer
- Language: Portuguese
- Key Exploration: First sea route to China, 1513
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of the Tamão settlement?
It served as a base for establishing early trade agreements and provided the intelligence that eventually led to the founding of Macau.
Did Álvares reach China alone?
No, he traveled with a fleet of five junks under the command of Rui de Brito Patalim and was accompanied by two other Portuguese mariners.
Achievements
- Recorded as explorer
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