My Share for #BeautifulSunday initiated by @ace108
This Sunday we went out to see the exhibit of the Spanish Galleon San Diego. Originally called San Antonio it was built to be a trading ship. During the Spanish occupation of Manila there was a a threat of invasion from the Dutch. In return the ship was ordered to be converted into a warship thus San Diego was born. On December 14,1600 San Diego confronted the Dutch galleon Mauritius head on. Armed with 14 powerful cannons and 450 men. The San Diego was massive compared to Mauritius but on the downside the ship was heavy as it was designed for trading with cargo still in it. The weight of the cargo, artillery and crew restricted the ship's maneuverability. As was designed for trading it was unable to withstand the cannons from the Dutch. When the Mauritius collided with the ship it's fate was sealed. Thus the colossal San Diego along with lives and precious cargo sank deep into the abyss to be almost forgotten.
Sleeping for centuries beneath the ocean of the Philippines. The resting place of San Diego was discovered by the French archaeologist Franck Goddio in 1992. More than 34,000 remnants of artifacts was recovered from bones, weapons, cannons, helmets to stoneware. Here are some of the artifacts which were on display during our visit to the exhibit.
This is the scale model of the San Diego to visualize the structure of the ship. According to historians water also entered thru the large cannon ports due to the weight of the ship in addition, the structure was not made to withstand cannonballs.
Here are some of the artifacts recovered including a large wooden crucifix which has withstood the test of time. You can see the fascinating intricate detail from centuries ago which was resting deep into the ocean.
Here is the massive anchor from the ship you could imagine the size of the ship with anchor this large. I have noticed there were two anchors from the scale model. Not sure if the other anchor may have been recovered or lost during the battle. I should have asked and paid more attention during the tour but I was busy breaking away from the group and taking photos.
These are load weight made of lead and was also told it was used to close out holes from the wood.
Here are some other remnants ropes, wooden pulley and keys which you could imagine could be a door or treasure chest which was used to open.
The helmet fascinated me more which you could see that sea creatures used it as a home. Shells and fossil remains are attached to this helmet.
On display also recovered are some of the 14 bronze cannons taken from Spanish forts around Manila to arm the San Diego. There were also cannon balls found and reunited again alongside the cannons. We can only envision how these cannons were ignited and fired during that time of battle. Who might have manned the cannon will remain a mystery forever.
Weapons, pieces of armor and ornaments from the crew were also recovered including Japanese swords. This led to the discovery that Japanese mercenaries were recruited to add to the fighting force on board the ship. Must have been a glorious battle between the Spanish and the Dutch fascinating to know Japanese warriors were included in the battle. This adds more color and drama in The Tragedy of San Diego. Would be amazing if it were created into a movie so we can get a glimpse of that day.
Among the treasure were porcelain, earthenware and stoneware from China and other parts. These are some of the cargo which was not unloaded probably as they were rushing to get the ship ready for war in defense.
A large number of jars which were still intact may have contained wine, spices, seeds and other food produce. We could see how the galleon trade was flourishing during this time.
This particular jar caught my attention. This Chinese jar with a dragon design is enclosed in a glass display case. Could sell a lot if were on an auction as the craftsmanship was beautiful.
On display on glass cabinets are presumably the more prized collection of the wares. Flash photography are prohibited as usual as it would damage the collection in the long run and only a certain amount of light is allowed. I have noticed that the guard has been stalking me during my walk. I think it might have been the red auto focus assist lamp on my camera that caught his attention. Still he could not apprehend me as it was not flash maybe he was waiting for the moment if I would be using the flash which I would not dare do. The guards were great as I could see that they were doing their job well.
Lighting was needed also during the day time in the galleon. According to the guide cabins of officers sometime did not have windows or port holes. Lamps and candle stick holders made from bronze or silver was a necessity.
Mortars and pestle made from bronze were also found on board.
Imagine having a dinner on board this galleon using fine wares during that time.
After this tour I romanticized about the life in the 1600's having dinner on a Spanish galleon during the galleon trade. Must have been a beautiful sight seeing galleons on ports and sailing away. Of course life was more dangerous during that time pirates, war, disease still it was a beautiful century. Looking at all that was exquisite it was a time of wonder, adventure and discovery. These days there is not much left of discovery in this planet I just hope we keep the memories from the past alive with these artifacts and treasures.
Thanks for spending time with me today in this #BeautifulSunday I hope you enjoyed the tour.
All my photos and writing are original taken with Lumix GX85
