A galleon is a large sailing ship that was commonly used from the 16th to the 18th centuries. These ships were primarily designed for trade and warfare, featuring multiple decks and a broad hull. Galleons were equipped with sails and often carried heavy cannons, making them formidable vessels on the high seas. Galleons played a significant role in maritime history, especially in the Spanish Empire, where they were used to transport goods like silver and spices between Europe and the Americas. Their design influenced later shipbuilding, contributing to the evolution of naval architecture.