Quick Answer

The Void Century is first mentioned in One Piece Chapter 392 of the manga, which corresponds to Episode 276 of the anime, during the Alabasta arc when Nico Robin (then Miss All Sunday) introduces the concept of the Poneglyphs and the 100-year gap in recorded history.

Background: How the Mystery Unfolds

First Canon Appearance

The Void Century mystery officially kicks off in the Alabasta saga , where Nico Robin—initially introduced as the antagonist Miss All Sunday—reveals critical information about the Poneglyphs , ancient indestructible stone tablets that hold the key to uncovering the lost century.

  • Manga Chapter: 392
  • Anime Episode: 276 (titled “The Secret of the Poneglyphs” or similar, depending on the dub/sub)
  • Context: Robin explains to the Straw Hats that these stones were created by the civilization of Ohara and contain historical records that the World Government tried to erase.

This moment plants the seed for what would become the central mystery driving the entire One Piece plot , as Robin’s knowledge and the Poneglyphs become the gateway to understanding the Void Century, the Ancient Kingdom, and the true history of the world.

Why the Alabasta Arc?

The Alabasta arc is a turning point in the series for several reasons:

  • Robin joins the crew: After the conflict, Robin officially becomes the Straw Hats’ archaeologist, bringing her unique ability to read Poneglyphs.
  • Introduction of Pluton: The arc also reveals the existence of one of the Ancient Weapons , Pluton, which is tied to the Void Century and the World Government’s cover-up.
  • World Government stakes: The arc establishes the lengths the World Government will go to suppress the truth, including the destruction of Ohara.

Deeper Dive: What Is the Void Century?

The Void Century refers to a 100-year gap in the official historical record of the One Piece world, spanning from roughly 900 to 800 years before the current timeline.

Key Facts

  • Erased History: The World Government systematically erased all records of this period, making it a crime to research or mention it.
  • Ohara Massacre: The scholars of Ohara, including Robin’s mentor Professor Clover, were killed for attempting to uncover the truth.
  • Poneglyphs: These stones were created to preserve the lost history, with some leading to the legendary treasure, One Piece , and others revealing the truth about the Ancient Kingdom and the war against the 20 Kingdoms.

Recent Developments (Elbaph Arc)

As of the Elbaph arc (2025–2026) , Eiichiro Oda has been progressively revealing more about the Void Century, including:

  • Joy Boy: Identified as the first pirate and leader of the Ancient Kingdom, who fought against the 20 Kingdoms alliance.
  • Nerona Imu: The mysterious sovereign who won the war and became the hidden ruler of the World Government.
  • Successors of Legends: Characters like Luffy, Shanks, Blackbeard, Loki, and Mihawk are being set up as successors or descendants of figures from the Void Century, tying their destinies to this ancient conflict.

Timeline of Mentions

Medium| Chapter/Episode| Arc/Context| Key Reveal
---|---|---|---
Manga| Chapter 392| Alabasta (post-arc)| First mention of Poneglyphs & Void Century
Anime| Episode 276| Alabasta| Robin explains the 100-year gap
Manga| Chapter 1114| Egghead Arc| Vegapunk reveals Joy Boy as the first pirate
Manga| Chapter 1138+| Elbaph Arc (2025–2026)| Second World, Imu, Nika, and successors

Why It Matters

The Void Century isn’t just a plot device—it’s the backbone of One Piece’s entire narrative. It connects:

  • Luffy’s destiny as the reincarnation of Joy Boy and Sun God Nika.
  • The World Government’s tyranny and Imu’s hidden rule.
  • The Ancient Weapons (Pluton, Poseidon, Uranus) and their role in the final war.
  • The true meaning of One Piece and what it means to become the Pirate King.

TL;DR

  • First Mention: Chapter 392 / Episode 276 (Alabasta arc)
  • Who Revealed It: Nico Robin
  • What It Is: A 100-year gap in history erased by the World Government
  • Why It’s Important: It’s the key to understanding the world, the Ancient Kingdom, Joy Boy, Imu, and the true meaning of One Piece.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.