The spatial mobility of seafarers in the Mediterranean : a case-study based on status liberi documentation (1581-1640)

Abstract

Seafaring has always tended to be a cosmopolitan pursuit and both merchant and naval vessels in the Early Modern Period have typically been manned by crews made up of different nationalities. This was particularly so in the Mediterranean. Starting from the mid-sixteenth century and as a consequence of its new role as the Hapsburg Empire's southern outpost the island of Malta became an increasingly important centre of maritime activity which attracted seafarers from near and far. This paper, based on the Status Liberi documentation which regulated the marriage of foreigners in Catholic countries, sets out to give details concerning the geographical origin and other characteristics of the seafarers who constituted the bulk of the foreigners who set down roots by marrying locally.