On board the training ship Juan Sebastián Elcano, the midshipmen continue their intense training, which not only involves physical exercises and navigation practices, but also important historical learning.
This week, Princess Leonor and her mates participated in a lecture on the Manila Galleon, a key trade route in history that connected continents and cultures.
Princess Leonor’s history lesson aboard Elcano
The lecture was given virtually by Spaniards Rafa Codes, a writer and historical researcher, in collaboration with Silvia Ribelles de la Vega, with whom he co-wrote the book El Galeón de Manila (The Manila Galleon).
Codes shared his experience on social networks, highlighting how special it was to talk about this historical episode with the midshipmen and, in particular, with the future queen of Spain.
In the images published by the writer, the young men can be seen dressed in their working uniform, attentive to the talk while taking notes at tables set up inside the ship.
One of the photographs captured the moment when the attendees applauded at the end of the session and showed the happy faces of Rafa and Silvia.
What is the Manila Galleon?
The history of the Manila Galleon is fascinating. For centuries, this trade route linked Asia, America and Europe, allowing the exchange of goods, ideas and customs.
In the synopsis of their book, Codes and Ribelles explain that many items that today are considered traditional in Spain, such as the Manila shawl or churros, actually have Chinese origins and arrived in the country thanks to this voyage.
Photo of Leonor on the Elcano
Beyond the content of the talk, the images shared offer a rare perspective of life aboard the Elcano.
Until now, Princess Leonor’s appearances on the ship have been limited to moments on deck, such as greetings at ports or physical activities.
However, this photograph shows her in her role as a midshipwoman, integrated with her mates in the day-to-day of her training.
The training voyage continues. After leaving Montevideo, Uruguay, the training ship’s next port of call will be Punta Arenas, Chile, where it is expected to arrive on March 20.
Until then, the midshipmen will continue to expand their knowledge of history, navigation and life at sea.