Cape Virgenes


Capes in the Americas

Cape Virgenes (Cabo Virgenes, Cape Virgins) is the southeastern tip of continental Argentina. Ferdinand Magellan reached it on 21 October 1520 and discovered a strait, now called the Strait of Magellan. As 21 October is the feast day of Saint Ursula and the Eleven Thousand Virgins, he named the cape in their honor.[1]

The Cape is located in Santa Cruz Province, Patagonia, Argentina. The Cape Virgenes Argentine Lighthouse has been operating since 1904. In 1876, gold was found there mixed with sand.

References

  1. ^ Morison, Samuel (1974). The European Discovery of America: The Southern Voyages, 1492-1616. New York: Oxford University Press.