When did Marco Polo start exploring? This question has intrigued historians and adventurers alike for centuries. Marco Polo, the famous Venetian merchant and explorer, embarked on his remarkable journey to the East in 1271, at the age of 17. His exploration, which would span over 24 years, marked a significant milestone in the history of European exploration and trade.
Marco Polo’s journey began in Venice, where he was born in 1254. His father, Niccolò Polo, and his uncle, Maffeo Polo, were experienced merchants who had traveled to Asia in search of new trade routes. Inspired by their tales of distant lands and riches, young Marco decided to join them on their next journey. The trio set sail from Venice in 1271, heading towards the Mongol Empire, which was then ruled by Kublai Khan.
Upon reaching the Mongol capital of Khanbaliq (modern-day Beijing), Marco Polo and his family were welcomed by Kublai Khan. Impressed by their knowledge of the West, the Khan invited them to stay and serve as his emissaries. Marco Polo spent the next 17 years in the Mongol Empire, serving as an advisor to the Khan and traveling extensively throughout his vast domain.
During his time in Asia, Marco Polo gathered a wealth of information about the East, including its culture, customs, and geography. He documented his experiences in a book titled “The Travels of Marco Polo,” which became a bestseller in Europe and a valuable source of information for future explorers. In this book, Marco Polo describes his journey from Venice to the Mongol Empire, his adventures, and the wonders he encountered along the way.
So, when did Marco Polo start exploring? The answer is 1271, when he embarked on his journey to the East with his father and uncle. His exploration not only expanded the European understanding of Asia but also laid the groundwork for future European exploration and trade. Marco Polo’s legacy as an explorer and his captivating tales of the East continue to inspire people around the world to this day.
