Magellan Monument: A Testament to Exploration
Commemorating Magellan's landing in 1521, this monument in Guam marks a pivotal moment in Pacific history and cultural exchange.
The Magellan Monument, located in the village of Humåtak, Guam, marks the site where Ferdinand Magellan first landed on the island on March 6, 1521. Sailing under the Spanish Crown, Magellan's arrival put Guam on the map and brought it within the sphere of Western influence. The monument itself is a tall, white obelisk with a ball at the top and a red and white base, reflecting a typical Spanish style. It was erected in 1926 by the Guam Teachers Association to commemorate this historical event. Following Magellan's visit, Guam and the other Mariana Islands were called the Islands of Thieves (Islas de Ladrones). This name originated from an incident where one of Magellan's officers slapped a Chamorro, which escalated into a spear fight and the theft of a ship's skiff. In retaliation, Magellan's crew set fire to several villages, killing seven people before sailing to the Philippines. Today, the arrival of Magellan is commemorated with the Guam Discovery Day festival on the first Monday of March since 1970. The monument is located in Umatac Bay Park and offers scenic views of the bay. Visitors can explore the area, read informational plaques, and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere. Nearby Umatac offers a complete cultural experience with local food and shopping.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen, as there is limited shade at the monument.
- Take time to walk around and read the informational plaques to fully appreciate the site's history.
- Consider visiting nearby Humåtak for a complete cultural experience, including local food and shopping.
A brief summary to Magellan Monument
- 7MX7+H5G, 2, Humåtak, GU
Getting There
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Car
If driving from Hagåtña, take Route 1 south. Continue onto Route 2, then turn left onto Route 4 towards Humåtak. The Magellan Monument will be visible on your right. There is a small, free parking area available at the site.
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Public Transport
To reach the Magellan Monument by public transportation, take Bus Route 1 towards Hagatna, then transfer to Bus Route 5 towards Humåtak. Inform the driver to stop at the closest stop to the Magellan Monument. From there, it is a short walk to the monument. Bus fare is approximately $1.50 per ride.
