Spice Islands

The Spice Islands, also known as the Maluku Islands, are a group of islands in Indonesia famous for their historically valuable spices like cloves and nutmeg. Located in Southeast Asia, these islands played a major role in global trade from the 16th to 18th centuries, attracting European explorers and colonizers seeking these aromatics. The islands' rich spice production influenced economic, cultural, and political histories in the region, making them a key area in the age of maritime exploration and international commerce. Today, they remain vital for spice cultivation and cultural diversity.