The collection includes the 'birth certificate' of the Philippines, books by an ancient geographer, and more
The year 2021 is a symbolic one for the Philippines, especially for its Christian peoples, as they mark the 500th anniversary of Catholicism. With its celebration comes the history of Lapulapu and the country's first association with the Spanish in 1521 with the help of Ferdinand Magellan.
Magellan is among the many figures Filipinos learn about growing up, mostly through the eyes of the natives he encountered. This month, the Palacio de Memoria gives Pinoys another way to get to know the Portuguese explorer through rare artifacts from his circumnavigation of the Earth dating back between 1565 to 1588. The pieces are to be showcased at its second open Flea Market from June 5 to 6, 2021 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Art enthusiasts and history buffs are in for a treat as its Gallery of Prints is also presenting “The Half Millenium Arrival of Ferdinand Magellan'' collection. It is set to bring the ultimate throwback pieces such as the complete original three volume set of Giovanni Battista Ramusio’s “Delle Navigatione et Viaggi..” (Navigations and Travels), published during the second half of the 16th century. The book includes the famous Ramusio analysis of the Pigafetta narrative of Magellan/Elcano’s First Circumnavigation and narrative sequences on the same voyage from Maximillianus Transylvanus, which first appeared in 1522.
The collection is also bringing to light the Gastaldi Map, which is considered the “Birth Certificate” of the Philippines with “Filipina” appearing for the first time on a printed map. These volumes include 13 other famous maps, both with woodcuts and copper engravings. The map also includes an analysis of Pigafetta's account of Magellan.
Aside from the Gallery of Prints, the Flea Market is also showcasing incomparable pieces from Rue, Vidro, Gallery of Prints, Private Collection of Angelique Lhuillier, Private Collection of Edd Fuentes, Farzam, Silahis Center, Lotus Asian Antiques, and Caramel Creatives. Shoppers can also expect more rare and vintage finds, such as sculptures, furniture, textiles, accessories, toys, and more.
Open for everyone, the two-day vibrant affair is a quick respite from the stresses of the current pandemic. To help ensure the health and safety of its visitors, Palacio de Memoria will strictly implement safety measures throughout the duration of the event.
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