This Beautiful Map Is The Oldest And Largest In The World

For the first time in history, one of the world’s largest maps, originally spread over 60 individual pages, has been joined together.

The huge, colourful rendering of our planet was created by mapmaker Urbano Monte in Milan, Italy, in 1587. Now, over 430 years later, cartography expert David Rumsey has assembled it in full – just the way Monte intended.

Rumsey, with the help of his nephew Brandon, has impressively pieced together a digital version of the iconic world map, which is one of the oldest and largest in the world. Prior to being digitalised, the map would have measured over 10 full feet (3 metres) in diameter when united.

Contrarily, the digital version can be viewed easily on a screen, where the sublime detail of Monte’s drawing can be even better appreciated.

But there is more to this story than visual appeal.

‘Monte’s map reminds us of why historical maps are so important as primary resources,’ Rumsey explains. ‘The north polar azimuthal projection of his planisphere uses the advanced scientific ideas of his time; the artistry in drawing and decorating the map embodies design at the highest level; and the view of the world then gives us a deep historical resource with the listing of places, the shape of spaces, and the commentary interwoven into the map. Science, art, and history all in one document.’

Monte’s map illustrates more than just geographical information. It also displays climate data, daylight hours, flora, fauna and the architecture of each country it depicts.

Lions and camels can be seen across Central Africa, whereas South America is speckled with exotic birds. Portraits of kings and warriors adorn the map. It even makes a home for mythological characters, as was a common practice at the time.

A modern version of this iconic masterpiece is currently being used as the UN emblem, and only one other copy of the map exists in the world.

If only Monte could see his map now!

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

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