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padrao
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padrao

Portuguese stone pillar
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The term "padrão" refers to Portuguese stone pillars erected as markers of discovery. During his voyages, explorer Vasco da Gama placed these pillars in various locations, including near Mossel Bay in South Africa, Mozambique, and Calicut, India. These padrões served as proof that his fleet had reached these destinations. The use of such markers was part of the Portuguese exploration efforts during the 15th and 16th centuries, a period that also inspired significant historical and literary works documenting their voyages and empire.12

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. flag of Portugal
  2. Portuguese literature - The literature of discovery and conquest
  3. Vasco da Gama: Top Questions

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