During the middle decade of the 16th century a new type of sailing vessel emerged, designed to carry the wealth of Americas to Spain. This was the galleon, and over the next century these vessels would serve Spain well as treasure ships and war ships, becoming a symbol of Spanish power and wealth during the period.

This book traces the development of the Spanish Galleon, and outlines the constructional methods, the ordnance and the crewing needed to produce and maintain these stately vessels. It examines the role of the galleon as a treasure ship, and describes how these ships were manned and fought in action.