A Report of the Kingdom of Congo and of the Surrounding Countries

This historical account details Duarte Lopez's experiences in the Congo, showcasing the Portuguese exploration of West Africa in the sixteenth century.

In A Report of the Kingdom of Congo and of the Surrounding Countries, Duarte Lopez, a Portuguese trader, provides a captivating narrative of his extensive travels in the Congo region during the sixteenth century. Transcribed by the Italian mathematician Filippo Pigafetta, this account reveals the depth of Portuguese exploration in West Africa, a subject that remained largely unknown to subsequent explorers. Originally published in Italian in 1591, this English annotated translation surfaced in 1881, shedding light on the rich history of the region.

Lopez's journey, which lasted twelve years, was marked by his hope for support from Pope Sixtus V to aid his mission in the Congo. Unfortunately, that support never materialized, leading Lopez to return to Africa, where he ultimately vanished. Pigafetta's transcription captures not only Lopez's experiences aboard his uncle's ship but also provides valuable insights into the geography and political structure of the Kingdom of Congo, detailing its six administrative regions and their ruler, referred to as 'Don Alvarez' by Lopez.

This work serves as a critical historical document, illustrating the extent of Portuguese influence and exploration in West Africa during a pivotal period. The annotated English translation enhances the reader's understanding of Lopez's observations, making A Report of the Kingdom of Congo and of the Surrounding Countries an essential read for those interested in the history of exploration and the complexities of the Congo's past.