port royal was a city in jamaica. it was the focus of trade in jamaica in the 17th century. it was known for its piracy, but also for the riches accumulated, and for the very bad moral values that could be found in the city. an earthquake in june of 1692 largely destroyed the city. two thirds of the city sank into the caribbean sea. today, the city is covered by at least 8 metres of water. the city is among the most important archaeological sites in the ocean. its role as a center for trade was taken over by spanish town, jamaica, and later by kingston.