When finally arrived at the court of the Negus (Emperor) Eskender of Ethiopia around 1493, he was initially welcomed. The Ethiopian Christians had long heard rumors of a Christian kingdom in the West (Portugal). Covilhã brought letters from King João II, and the Negus was delighted.
In 1487, King John II of Portugal was obsessed with two goals: finding the maritime route to the spice markets of India and locating the mythical "Prester John," a powerful Christian king rumored to live in the heart of Africa or Asia. pedro da covilha
Initially honored, Covilhã was soon informed of the Ethiopian law of the guardians : no foreigner of value was allowed to leave, lest they reveal the kingdom’s weakness to hostile Muslims. He was given lands, a wife, and high office. He would never see Portugal again. When finally arrived at the court of the