The petacchio

Abstract

The petacchio originated most probably in the Levant, although an Italian origin is not to be completely discounted. It was quite popular in the Mediterranean, in both Christian and Muslim countries. A small, square-rigged vessel, it was employed both as a warship and as a transport vessel. Both Christian and Muslim private corsairs found it as a suitable weapon, even during the winter months. The Order of St John operated with few petacchios but by the second half of the seventeenth century it disappeared from the knights' navy. The petacchio as a small warship remained in service in the Mediterranean up to the early 13th century subsequently it assumed a different role as it was found suitable for guard duties at the entrances of harbours and to patrol coasts and rivers for contraband activities.