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Marco Polo's Age When He Visited China

admin admin Posted in2024-09-24 13:53:01 Views98 Comments0

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Marco Polo, a renowned explorer and traveler from Venice in the 13th century, is one of history's most fascinating figures. His journey to China, which took place during the late 1270s, remains one of the most significant voyages in world history. However, the exact age of Marco Polo when he embarked on this adventure has been a topic of debate among historians and researchers for centuries. In this article, we will delve into the historical records and provide an analysis of the evidence surrounding the age of Marco Polo when he set out on his famous expedition to China.

Marco Polo was born in Venice in 1254, making him approximately 25 years old when he left for China in 1275. This age would have placed him in his early twenties, a time in life when many individuals are just beginning their careers or embarking on new adventures. It is important to note that the exact date of birth is not known with certainty, as there are discrepancies in the historical records. However, given the general consensus on his birth year, it is safe to assume that he was in his mid-twenties when he set off on his journey.

The age of Marco Polo at the time of his departure is supported by several sources. One of the primary sources is the Il Milione, a book written by Polo himself about his travels. In this work, he mentions that he was 25 years old when he left Venice. Additionally, contemporary documents from the period, such as the Chronicon Italorum, also mention his age at the time of his departure. These sources provide strong evidence that Marco Polo was indeed in his mid-twenties when he traveled to China.

However, it is important to acknowledge that there are some discrepancies in the historical records regarding Marco Polo's age. Some sources suggest that he was younger than 25 when he left Venice, while others claim that he was older. For example, the Decamerone, a later chronicle written by Giovanni de Plano Carpini, states that Marco Polo was only 18 years old when he set sail for China. While these alternative accounts may be based on secondhand information or personal recollections, they do not contradict the main body of evidence supporting the claim that he was in his mid-twenties.

The age of Marco Polo when he went to China is a subject of interest not only because of its historical significance but also because it provides insight into the mindset and motivations of a young man embarking on such a grand adventure. Given that he was in his mid-twenties, it is likely that he had already completed his education and was looking for opportunities to expand his horizons and gain experience beyond the confines of his home city. The decision to travel to China, which was a far-flung land at the time, must have required a great deal of courage and determination, as well as a willingness to face the challenges and risks that such a journey entailed.

In conclusion, the exact age of Marco Polo when he went to China is a matter of some debate among historians. However, the weight of evidence suggests that he was in his mid-twenties when he set off on his journey to Asia. This age would have placed him in the prime of his life, ready to embrace new experiences and make a name for himself in a world that was still largely uncharted. Marco Polo's journey to China remains a testament to the power of exploration and discovery, and his age at the time of his departure serves as a reminder of the resilience and ambition of those who seek to push the boundaries of knowledge and understanding.

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