Francisco Núñez Melián facts for kids

Francisco Núñez Melián was an important Spanish official and explorer. He was born in Madrid, Spain, sometime in the 1500s. He became famous for leading an expedition to find sunken treasure ships.

Núñez Melián also served as a governor in different parts of the Spanish Empire. He was the Governor of Venezuela and later the Governor of Yucatán. He passed away on April 13, 1644, while still serving as governor.

Finding Sunken Treasure

In 1626, Francisco Núñez Melián led a special trip. His goal was to find two Spanish ships that had sunk. These ships were called the Nuestra Señora de Atocha and the Santa Margarita. They had gone down in a storm near Florida.

On June 3, 1626, a member of his expedition, Casta Bañon, made an exciting discovery. Casta Bañon found the wreck of the Santa Margarita. This was a big moment for the expedition.

Serving as Governor

Francisco Núñez Melián held important leadership roles for Spain. From 1630 to 1637, he was the Governor of Venezuela. This was a large area in South America.

Later, from 1643 to 1644, he became the Governor of Yucatán. This region is now part of Mexico. He was chosen for this role by Philip IV of Spain, who was the king at the time. Núñez Melián died in Yucatán on April 13, 1644, while still in office.

See also

In Spanish: Francisco Núñez Melián para niños