Vasco Da Gama Pillar is a found on a coral rock along the Indian Ocean in Malindi, Kilifi County. One of the oldest European cenotaphs was the Vasco da Gama Pillar, which was erected on the coast of East Africa to direct seafarers to India. Even six centuries after it was constructed, the Pillar is still amazing.
Although the pillar has seen better days, it is nevertheless a well-liked tourist attraction because to repairs and upkeep by the National Museums of Kenya (NMK). Despite the difficulties it encounters, especially from the ocean water currents and severe weather that are wearing it down, the pillar still stands tall. Boulders were recently added to the pillar to prevent collapse as a result of the strong water waves.
Vasco Da Gama Pillar’s history.
The Pillar was constructed in 1498 by the Portuguese navigator Vasco Da Gama. His most famous voyage involved sailing around Cape of Good Hope in Africa to reach India from Europe. Before arriving in India on May 20, 1498, he made two voyages to the southern African coast between 1497 and 1502 and conducted trade with the inhabitants there. To help his fellow countrymen, who were also sailors, acquire a sense of India, Vasco da Gama built the pillar. The pillar is also believed to have been crucial in promoting trade between Portugal and India. Except for its lack of lights, the pillar resembles a lighthouse. Additionally, it is said that the Portuguese explorers could see the pillar while at sea as they approached the shores of Malindi.
Some historical traditions claim that Vasco Da Gama came as an explorer with the goal of connecting India with Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The Sultan of Malindi greeted him when he arrived in 1498. Vasco da Gama and his crew were well taken care of by the Sultan of Malindi. The sea path to India was also shown to visitors by a guide who was appointed to them. Upon his return, Da Gama erected the pillar as a token of gratitude to the Sultan for his hospitality. Da Gama therefore built the pillar as a representation of his friendly connection with the Sultan of Malindi.
