Old Gibraltar and Algeciras Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Bays, Forts, Shipwrecks

A Chart of Gibraltar Bay, including Algeziras Bay, and the Pearl Rock is an exquisite example of early 19th-century cartography, a period marked by significant naval power and geopolitical changes. Crafted in 1802 by the renowned British cartographer William Heather, this chart is not merely a navigational tool but a piece of history, capturing the strategic importance of Gibraltar during the Napoleonic Wars. Heather, known for his detailed and precise maritime charts, presents a comprehensive view of this critical Mediterranean point where the Atlantic meets the European and African continents.

The chart meticulously details the bays of Gibraltar and Algeziras, extending from the iconic Rock of Gibraltar to Point Cabreta and the town of Algeciras. It is oriented with north at the top, adhering to traditional cartographic practices, and includes a rich tapestry of information crucial for navigation. Noteworthy are the soundings, anchorages, and navigational hazards like shipwrecks, which are clearly marked, reflecting the chart's primary use for maritime navigation. The inclusion of various forts and military installations underscores the area's military significance during a time when control of the seas was pivotal to empire-building.

In addition to its practical maritime details, the chart also offers a glimpse into the terrestrial landscape, depicting some topographical features such as the rugged terrain of the Rock of Gibraltar. This blend of land and sea information provides a holistic view of the region's geography, making it an invaluable resource for understanding historical naval strategies and the natural challenges faced by mariners of the time.

The aesthetic quality of the chart is undeniable, attributed to the fine engraving skills of John Stephenson, whose work is marked by clarity and attention to detail. Each element, from the scale bar to the ornate compass rose, is crafted with precision, reflecting the high standards of cartographic design during the period. This chart is not only a functional artifact but also a work of art, representing the height of cartographic aesthetics in the early 1800s.

Lastly, the historical context of this chart adds layers to its significance. Created during a tumultuous period in European history, it represents a tool of immense strategic importance. Gibraltar was the linchpin in British naval dominance in southern Europe, and this chart, by providing detailed navigational information, played a role in securing British interests in the region. Owning such a chart is akin to possessing a piece of maritime history, a snapshot of the era when the mastery of the seas could determine the fate of nations.

Notable Places on This Map

• Gibraltar
• Algeciras
• Tarifa

Notable Features & Landmarks

• The Bay of Gibraltar, located on the southern coast of Spain
• The coastline of Spain and Morocco, as well as the Strait of Gibraltar
• Several forts and other military installations
• Several lighthouses
• Several shipwrecks
• A scale bar and a compass rose

Historical and Design Context

• Created by William Heather in 1802
• Published by the British Admiralty
• Part of Heather's "The New Mediterranean Pilot," the first English collection of Mediterranean port charts
• Notable for its finely engraved charts, many signed in monogram by the London engraver John Stephenson
• Made during the Napoleonic Wars when Gibraltar was crucial for British naval power in southern Europe and the Mediterranean

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 50in (125cm). 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.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

Read my full delivery and local production guide

My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.