Martin Behaim

Explorer

Birthday October 6, 1459

Birth Sign Libra

Birthplace Germany

DEATH DATE Jul 29, 1507 (47)

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About

German explorer and geographer remembered for creating the Erdapfel, the oldest surviving terrestrial globe. He was a member of King John II of Portugal's Council on Navigation and is thought to have aided in the discovery of the Straits of Magellan.

Before Fame

He moved to Flanders in 1477, where he worked for clothing vendor Jorius van Dorpp.

Trivia

His famous Erdapfel has been preserved at the German National Museum and is significant for being the first globe tilted to spin at the correct angle.

Family Life

He married D. Joana de Macedo in 1486.

Associated With

He was acquainted with Italian explorer Christopher Columbus during his time in the court of King John II of Portugal.