Museo del Galeon opens in Manila to showcase maritime history

The Museo del Galeon has opened in Manila, located within the Mall of Asia, to showcase the historical significance of maritime trade and the vital role of Filipino seafarers. The museum provides an immersive look at the trade routes that connected Asia to the New World, specifically the route between Manila and Acapulco.

A central feature of the museum is a full-scale replica of the Galeon Espiritu Santo, a ship that sailed the Pacific between 1603 and 1618. The replica, measuring nearly 30 meters in height and 40 meters in length, recreates the experience of the original crew as they transported Asian goods like silk and spices in exchange for silver.

The exhibit also highlights the modern importance of Filipino maritime workers, who currently comprise between 25% and 30% of ship crews worldwide. According to international maritime organizations, these seafarers are essential to the global economy, supporting a significant portion of international merchant shipping.