The name Lanzarote, identifying one of the Canary Islands, originates from the 1312 arrival of the Genoese navigator Lancelotto Malocello. Born in Varazze in 1270, this explorer expanded European maritime knowledge by reaching these islands, which previously appeared on indigenous maps as Tyterogaka. His activities established a historical connection that lasted for centuries between Italy and these Atlantic territories.
Discovery and Mapping
Lancelotto Malocello arrived at the Canary Islands in 1312. His presence on the island was documented in the 1339 map produced by Angelino Dulcert, known as the Dulcert Atlas. The chart identified the location as Ínsula de Lançarote Mallucellus, later shortened to Lanzarote. Historians suggest his expedition potentially sought the brothers Vandino and Ugolino Vivaldi, who disappeared after sailing toward the Canary Islands in 1291 while attempting to reach India.
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Following his arrival in 1312, Malocello remained on the island for approximately twenty years. He constructed a fortress located above Teguise. The residency concluded when a Guanche revolt forced his expulsion from the territory. Evidence of this defensive structure persisted long enough to be noted by the chronicles detailing the Norman conquest led by Jean de Béthencourt nearly one hundred years later.
Centennial Commemorations
In 2012, Lanzarote marked the 700th anniversary of the island's discovery. The event featured conferences with participants such as Alfonso Licata, who analyzed the historical context of the 14th-century voyage. To support the celebrations, committees formed in Spain and Italy, coordinating events across cities including Rome, Brussels, Strasbourg, Madrid, and Varazze. A delegation of 162 residents from Varazze traveled to Lanzarote aboard the Costa Deliziosa, retracing the maritime route likely taken by Malocello.
Naval Legacy
The memory of the navigator extended into military history through the naming of an Italian destroyer, the Lanzerotto Malocello. The vessel operated during the Spanish Civil War and World War II. Lancelotto Malocello died in 1336 in Genoa at the age of 66.
Fast facts
- Born: 1270, Varazze, Republic of Genoa
- Died: 1336, Genoa
- Discovery of Canary Islands: 1312
- Known as: Lanzarotus Marocelus, Lancelot Maloisel
- Original island name: Tyterogaka
- Associated map: Dulcert Atlas (1339)
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of the name Lanzarote?
The name is derived from the explorer Lancelotto Malocello, who arrived on the island in 1312.
Where did Malocello build his fortress?
His fortress was constructed above Teguise and remained visible until the time of the Norman conquest.
Achievements
- Recorded as explorer
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