"Vindeliciae Sive Utriusque Bavariae Secundum antiquum & recentiorem situm," crafted by the eminent cartographer Abraham Ortelius in 1570, is a masterful depiction of Bavaria and its surrounding regions. This exquisite map, derived from the earlier works of Johannes Aventinus, offers a fascinating glimpse into the geographical and political landscape of 16th-century Europe. Ortelius, celebrated for his pioneering atlas "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum," has meticulously detailed the topography, showcasing the rivers, mountains, and forests that define this historical region. The map is adorned with elaborate cartouches and artistic embellishments, reflecting the Renaissance era's cartographic elegance.
The map's design is a testament to Ortelius's artistic and scientific prowess. Each element, from the flowing rivers like the Danube and Lech to the stylized mountain ranges, is rendered with precision and care. The decorative elements, including coats of arms and Latin inscriptions, add a layer of historical depth and grandeur. This map not only serves as a geographical guide but also as a piece of art, capturing the essence of the Renaissance's cartographic style.
Ortelius's map is more than just a representation of physical geography; it is a historical document that offers insights into the political boundaries and ancient tribes of the time. The regions of Vindelicia and Noricum, along with references to the Vindelici and Norici tribes, provide a window into the ancient history of Bavaria. The map also highlights the neighboring regions of Germania, Austria, and Rhetia, illustrating the interconnectedness of these historical territories.
The cities and towns depicted on the map, such as Augsburg, Munich, Regensburg, and Ingolstadt, are significant historical centers that have played crucial roles in the development of Bavaria. Each settlement is meticulously placed, reflecting its importance and geographical context. The inclusion of other towns like Kempten, Memmingen, and Landshut further enriches the map's historical narrative, offering a comprehensive view of the region's urban landscape.
Ortelius's map is not just a cartographic achievement but a historical artifact that captures the essence of 16th-century Bavaria. Its detailed representation of natural features, historical references, and artistic design make it a valuable piece for collectors and historians alike. This map is a celebration of Ortelius's legacy and a testament to the rich history and geography of Bavaria.
Cities and towns on this map
- Bavaria:
- Augsburg
- Munich (Monachium)
- Regensburg (Ratisbona)
- Ingolstadt
- Landshut
- Freising
- Passau
- Straubing
- Vindelicia:
- Kempten (Campodunum)
- Füssen (Foetibus)
- Memmingen
- Landsberg
- Donauwörth (Raurica)
- Ulm
- Lindau
- Schongau (Sconga)
- Weilheim
- Mindelheim
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Natural Features:
- Rivers such as the Danube (Danuvius) and Lech
- Mountain ranges depicted in a stylized manner
- Forests and wooded areas
- Decorative Elements:
- Elaborate cartouches with Latin inscriptions
- Artistic embellishments and coats of arms
- Historical References:
- References to ancient tribes such as the Vindelici and Norici
- Historical regions like Noricum and Rhaetia
- Geographical Features:
- Detailed depiction of the topography including hills and valleys
- Representation of major roads and paths
Historical and design context
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Name of the map: Vindeliciae Sive Utriusque Bavariae Secundum antiquum & recentiorem situm, ab Joanne Auetino olim descriptus, Principibusque eiusdem regionis dedicatus, atque Landshuti editus Anno à Christo nato. 1533.
- Scarce example of Ortelius' first map of Bavaria.
- This first state was issued from 1570 to 1572, with an additional 25 copies printed in 1573, before the second map of Bavaria was issued (Van Den Broecke 110).
- The map is drawn from an earlier map of Johannes Aventinus (1477-1534), dated 1533.
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Date of creation: 1570
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Mapmaker/Publisher: Abraham Ortelius
- Ortelius was a renowned cartographer and geographer, known for creating the first modern atlas, "Theatrum Orbis Terrarum".
- Topics and themes:
- The map shows detailed political and physical features of Bavaria.
- It includes historical and geographical contexts, reflecting both ancient and contemporary (to 1570) Bavaria.
- Countries and regions shown:
- Bavaria (historical region)
- Vindelicia (ancient region)
- Neighboring regions such as Germania, Austria, and Rhetia.
- Design and style:
- The map features elaborate cartouches and artistic decorations typical of 16th-century cartography.
- It includes detailed topographical features such as mountains, rivers, and forests.
- Historical significance:
- This map is significant for its detailed representation of Bavaria during the 16th century.
- It reflects the cartographic knowledge and artistic style of the Renaissance period.
- The map provides insights into the historical geography and political boundaries of the time.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40x50cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.