Running in the footsteps of the Great Explorers: 8 Cities that changed the map of the world
- audreyubertino
- Aug 7
- 5 min read
Starting in the 15th century, a few port cities became the starting point for a remarkable human adventure. Driven by curiosity, a thirst for knowledge, or the search for new trade routes, the great explorers gradually pushed back the boundaries of the known world. Their expeditions paved the way for intercontinental trade, redrew maps, and left a lasting mark on history. From Europe to the Americas, via Africa, join JOOKS on a journey to discover eight cities that played a vital role in this incredible maritime epic and that continue to inspire travelers today.
Lisbon (Portugal) - The cradle of the Age of Discovery
Our journey begins on the banks of the Tagus River, in the city that served as the true testing ground for the Age of Discovery. It is from here that Portugal turned toward the ocean and opened a new chapter in world history.
In the 15th century, Lisbon became the center of Portugal’s maritime expansion. Under the leadership of Henry the Navigator, Portuguese sailors perfected their navigation techniques and gradually explored the African coast. Later, Vasco da Gama set sail for India, while Portuguese expeditions reached Brazil. As you explore Lisbon with JOOKS, admire the Belém Tower, the Jerónimos Monastery, and the docks from which some of history’s greatest expeditions set sail.
Cape Town (South Africa) - The gateway to the Indian Ocean
Leaving the European coast behind, sailors sailed along the African coast in search of a route to the East. One stop soon became essential: the Cape of Good Hope.
While Bartolomeu Dias was the first European to round the cape in 1488, it was Vasco da Gama who, a few years later, opened the sea route to India. Today, Cape Town retains its status as a city with a strong connection to the oceans. Between Table Mountain, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and the spectacular landscapes of the Cape Peninsula, the city evokes the daring spirit of those sailors who ventured toward as-yet-unknown horizons. With JOOKS, explore one of the most legendary stops in maritime history.
La Rochelle (France) - The port of departure for the great voyages to the New World
After crossing the Atlantic, European explorers relied on major ports to prepare their expeditions to new territories. On the French coast, La Rochelle became one of the main gateways to the New World.
As early as the 16th century, the port of La Rochelle played a major role in trade with the Americas. Many ships set sail from there for the West Indies or New France, carrying explorers, merchants, and settlers. The city maintained particularly close ties with Canada before becoming one of France’s major ports for Atlantic trade. Today, its medieval towers, Old Port, and docks serve as reminders of that era when La Rochelle looked out toward the ocean and distant horizons. With JOOKS, follow in the footsteps of those great travelers who helped connect the continents.
Havana (Cuba) - The great galleon crossroads
Maritime routes now cross the Atlantic. In the heart of the Caribbean, a city is rapidly becoming a must-stop for Spanish fleets.
Founded in 1519, Havana occupies an exceptional strategic location. Galleons laden with gold, silver, and merchandise would stop there before setting sail again for Europe. This wealth also attracted privateers and pirates, who coveted the treasures passing through the Cuban port. Today, Havana’s fortifications, historic docks, and colorful alleyways still bear witness to that era when the city was among the world’s most important ports. With JOOKS, immerse yourself in this fascinating history with every step.
Quebec City (Canada) - At the gates of New France
Our journey then takes us to the northern part of the American continent, where French explorers blazed a new trail along the St. Lawrence River.
Founded in 1608 by Samuel de Champlain, Quebec City became the hub of New France. From this strategic location, explorers, traders, and missionaries gradually ventured deeper into the continent. Dominated by the Château Frontenac and surrounded by remarkably well-preserved fortifications, the city boasts an exceptional heritage. As you explore Quebec City with JOOKS, discover one of North America’s oldest cities and relive the early chapters of French exploration.
New Orleans (USA) - The Mississippi gate
Explorers were no longer content to stay along the coasts; they now traveled up the great rivers to explore the interior. The Mississippi became one of the main routes for exploring the continent.
Founded in 1718 by the French, New Orleans occupies a strategic location at the mouth of the Mississippi River. From this city, expeditions could reach the vast territories of Louisiana and expand trade with the rest of North America. Today, the French Quarter, the riverfront, and the city’s unique atmosphere evoke this history, where exploration, trade, and cultural fusion converge. With JOOKS, let us guide you through this city with its incomparable character.
Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) - A stopover on the way to the New World
Further south, Portuguese explorers discovered a vast territory that would become one of the largest colonies on the American continent.
Discovered by Europeans in the early 16th century, Rio de Janeiro Bay immediately captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Thanks to its port, the city gradually became a major hub for trade between Brazil and Portugal. Today, Rio charms visitors as much with its spectacular scenery as with its maritime history. Between Sugarloaf Mountain, the historic center, and the waterfront along Guanabara Bay, a tour with JOOKS lets you relive the early days of European presence on the Brazilian coast.
Cádiz (Spain) - Where the oceans meet
Our journey comes to an end as we return to the Spanish coast. As ships grew larger and trade became more intense, a new port gradually took over from Seville.
Starting in the 18th century, Cádiz became the main point of departure and arrival for the Spanish fleets connecting Europe to the Americas. With its access to the Atlantic, the city experienced considerable growth thanks to maritime trade. Even today, its city walls, waterfront, and harbor serve as reminders of the vital role it played in trade between the continents. With JOOKS, discover this vibrant city, where our journey in the footsteps of the great explorers comes to an end.
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