caravellas

Caravellas is a term that can refer to several things, primarily a type of historical sailing vessel and a genus of flowering plants.

Historically, a caravella, or caravel, was a small, highly maneuverable sailing ship developed in the 15th century by Portuguese shipbuilders. It was known for its lateen sails, which allowed it to sail effectively against the wind. Caravels played a crucial role in the early Portuguese Age of Discovery, enabling voyages along the coast of Africa and across the Atlantic. Notable examples include the ships used by explorers like Bartholomew Diaz and Christopher Columbus. Their shallow draft also made them suitable for exploring river mouths and coastal areas.

In botany, Caravella refers to the genus Caravella, which is part of the family Orchidaceae, commonly known as orchids. Plants in this genus are native to South America, particularly Brazil. They are typically epiphytic, meaning they grow on other plants, often trees, without being parasitic. Caravella orchids are characterized by their specific floral structures and are cultivated by orchid enthusiasts for their aesthetic appeal. The classification of Caravella within the broader orchid family has undergone revisions based on genetic and morphological studies.