Narrative of the Portuguese embassy to Abyssinia during the years 1520-1527

A Portuguese diplomatic mission set out for the highlands of Abyssinia in the early 1520s, hoping to cement ties with the distant Christian kingdom and deliver letters from the legendary Prester John to the Pope. The account follows the envoys as they navigate the Red Sea, trek across rugged terrain, and encounter bustling markets, fortified cities, and the striking architecture of the imperial court. Along the way, the narrator records vivid details of local customs, religious practices, and the stark beauty of the Amhara valleys that cradle the royal princes.

Behind the scenes, the embassy is torn by rivalry between its chief ambassador and the secretary, a clash that threatens to undermine the entire venture. The narrator, a humble priest, often steps in as a peacemaker, offering a measured perspective on the growing tensions. Listeners will gain a rare glimpse into early modern cross‑cultural diplomacy, the challenges of long‑distance travel, and the complex personalities that shaped this historic encounter.