Illustration for the question “Which explorer launched the first circumnavigation expedition, completed by Juan Sebastián Elcano?”

History

Which explorer launched the first circumnavigation expedition, completed by Juan Sebastián Elcano?

Correct answer Ferdinand Magellan

Fact

Did you know?

Ferdinand Magellan launched and led the expedition that left Spain in 1519 to reach the Spice Islands by sailing west. He died in the Philippines in 1521 and did not complete the voyage. Juan Sebastián Elcano brought the Victoria back to Spain in 1522, completing the first documented circumnavigation with the survivors.

Reviewed by the Qulture editorial team · August 9, 2026

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