Old Bay of Alicant, France Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Alicante Castle, Fortifications, Coastal Depths
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Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.The Collector’s Offer
Choose two eligible works and receive 20% off both. Choose three and the lowest-priced one is complimentary, a maximum saving of 33%.
Mix and match eligible standard maps and fine-art prints. No code is required; the offer is applied automatically at checkout.
Standard made-to-order configurations are included. Bespoke sizes, personalised designs and commissioned work are excluded.
Need delivery to different addresses? Contact us before ordering.
Restored in London • Made in the USA
Restored from the original 1802 map and printed to museum-grade archival standards. Read the story behind this map
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Product Description of "The Bay of Alicant" by William Heather Introduction to the Map and Its Uniqueness"The Bay of Alicant," crafted meticulously...
Continue readingProduct Description of "The Bay of Alicant" by William Heather
Introduction to the Map and Its Uniqueness
"The Bay of Alicant," crafted meticulously by the renowned British hydrographer William Heather in 1802, stands as a remarkable historical artifact. This chart, part of Heather's ambitious "New Mediterranean Pilot," marks a significant British foray into Mediterranean cartography, a field previously dominated by French, Italian, and Spanish mapmakers. The chart is distinguished by its orientation with northwest at the top, a unique feature that sets it apart from its contemporaries. This rare chart not only serves as a navigational aid but also as a detailed pictorial representation of Alicante, a strategic port city on Spain's southeastern coast.
Detailed Features and Cartographic Elements
The map offers an intricate depiction of the Bay of Alicant, highlighting various nautical and topographical details. It includes precise soundings measured in fathoms, essential for mariners navigating the shallow waters. The coastline is adorned with the town of Alicante, prominently featuring its formidable castle perched on a hill, overseeing the bay. Fortifications like forts and coastal towers are meticulously marked, illustrating their historical military significance. The chart also notes the presence of natural obstacles such as sandbars and reefs, crucial for maritime safety.
Navigational and Topographical Insights
Beyond its utility for navigation, the chart provides a snapshot of the area's topographical layout. Notable features like Cape Houerta and Rochers Bank are clearly indicated, offering insights into the geographical challenges faced by sailors of the era. The depiction of the mole—a massive structure in the harbor—underscores its role in protecting anchored ships from the bay's harsh currents, which are also meticulously charted. This level of detail not only aided navigators but now serves as a historical record of the region’s maritime infrastructure.
Artistic and Historical Value
William Heather’s work is renowned for its artistic merit, evident in the fine engraving and attention to detail. The visual representation of Alicante, with its architectural and natural elements, conveys a sense of the city’s aesthetic during the early 19th century. Each engraved line and monogram, attributed to the London engraver John Stephenson, reflects a high level of craftsmanship, making this chart a collectible piece for both historians and art enthusiasts.
Significance in the Broader Context of Mediterranean Mapping
"The Bay of Alicant" is not just a navigational tool but a cultural artifact, capturing a moment in the rich maritime history of the Mediterranean. Its creation during a period when English cartographers were beginning to compete with their European counterparts adds layers of historical and geopolitical significance. This chart is a testament to the evolving techniques in hydrography and the expanding interest in Mediterranean ports, which were pivotal to trade and military endeavors during the period. Owning this chart is akin to possessing a piece of maritime history, invaluable to collectors and scholars alike.
What can be seen on this map
- Coastal Towns
- Alicant
- Fortifications
- Castle
- Fortresses
- Harbours
- The Bay of Alicant
- Large Structures
- The Mole
- Topographical Features
- Cape Houerta
- Rochers Bank
Notable Features & Landmarks
- The map shows the town of Alicante, with a castle on a hill overlooking the bay.
- The map shows the location of a fort and several towers along the coast.
- The map shows the depth of the water in the bay, in fathoms.
- The map shows the direction of the wind and the currents in the bay.
- The map shows the location of several sandbars and reefs in the bay.
- The map shows the location of a cape at the eastern end of the bay.
- The map shows the location of a river that flows into the bay.
- The map shows the location of several roads and paths in the area.
- The map shows the location of several churches and other religious buildings in the area.
Historical and Design Context
- Mapmaker: William Heather, a British hydrographer and publisher known for his detailed and finely engraved charts.
- Published: 1802 in London.
- Part of: Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot, the first English attempt at a collection of ports of the Mediterranean.
- Orientation: Unusually oriented with northwest at the top.
- Historical Significance: Provides a detailed snapshot of the Bay of Alicant in 1802 and represents an early English contribution to Mediterranean maritime cartography.
- Design and Style: Finely engraved chart, notable for its detailed depiction of nautical and topographical features.
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.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Product Description of "The Bay of Alicant" by William Heather
Introduction to the Map and Its Uniqueness
"The Bay of Alicant," crafted meticulously by the renowned British hydrographer William Heather in 1802, stands as a remarkable historical artifact. This chart, part of Heather's ambitious "New Mediterranean Pilot," marks a significant British foray into Mediterranean cartography, a field previously dominated by French, Italian, and Spanish mapmakers. The chart is distinguished by its orientation with northwest at the top, a unique feature that sets it apart from its contemporaries. This rare chart not only serves as a navigational aid but also as a detailed pictorial representation of Alicante, a strategic port city on Spain's southeastern coast.
Detailed Features and Cartographic Elements
The map offers an intricate depiction of the Bay of Alicant, highlighting various nautical and topographical details. It includes precise soundings measured in fathoms, essential for mariners navigating the shallow waters. The coastline is adorned with the town of Alicante, prominently featuring its formidable castle perched on a hill, overseeing the bay. Fortifications like forts and coastal towers are meticulously marked, illustrating their historical military significance. The chart also notes the presence of natural obstacles such as sandbars and reefs, crucial for maritime safety.
Navigational and Topographical Insights
Beyond its utility for navigation, the chart provides a snapshot of the area's topographical layout. Notable features like Cape Houerta and Rochers Bank are clearly indicated, offering insights into the geographical challenges faced by sailors of the era. The depiction of the mole—a massive structure in the harbor—underscores its role in protecting anchored ships from the bay's harsh currents, which are also meticulously charted. This level of detail not only aided navigators but now serves as a historical record of the region’s maritime infrastructure.
Artistic and Historical Value
William Heather’s work is renowned for its artistic merit, evident in the fine engraving and attention to detail. The visual representation of Alicante, with its architectural and natural elements, conveys a sense of the city’s aesthetic during the early 19th century. Each engraved line and monogram, attributed to the London engraver John Stephenson, reflects a high level of craftsmanship, making this chart a collectible piece for both historians and art enthusiasts.
Significance in the Broader Context of Mediterranean Mapping
"The Bay of Alicant" is not just a navigational tool but a cultural artifact, capturing a moment in the rich maritime history of the Mediterranean. Its creation during a period when English cartographers were beginning to compete with their European counterparts adds layers of historical and geopolitical significance. This chart is a testament to the evolving techniques in hydrography and the expanding interest in Mediterranean ports, which were pivotal to trade and military endeavors during the period. Owning this chart is akin to possessing a piece of maritime history, invaluable to collectors and scholars alike.
What can be seen on this map
- Coastal Towns
- Alicant
- Fortifications
- Castle
- Fortresses
- Harbours
- The Bay of Alicant
- Large Structures
- The Mole
- Topographical Features
- Cape Houerta
- Rochers Bank
Notable Features & Landmarks
- The map shows the town of Alicante, with a castle on a hill overlooking the bay.
- The map shows the location of a fort and several towers along the coast.
- The map shows the depth of the water in the bay, in fathoms.
- The map shows the direction of the wind and the currents in the bay.
- The map shows the location of several sandbars and reefs in the bay.
- The map shows the location of a cape at the eastern end of the bay.
- The map shows the location of a river that flows into the bay.
- The map shows the location of several roads and paths in the area.
- The map shows the location of several churches and other religious buildings in the area.
Historical and Design Context
- Mapmaker: William Heather, a British hydrographer and publisher known for his detailed and finely engraved charts.
- Published: 1802 in London.
- Part of: Heather's New Mediterranean Pilot, the first English attempt at a collection of ports of the Mediterranean.
- Orientation: Unusually oriented with northwest at the top.
- Historical Significance: Provides a detailed snapshot of the Bay of Alicant in 1802 and represents an early English contribution to Mediterranean maritime cartography.
- Design and Style: Finely engraved chart, notable for its detailed depiction of nautical and topographical features.
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.
This map is also available as a float framed canvas, sometimes known as a shadow gap framed canvas or canvas floater. The map is printed on artist's cotton canvas and then stretched over a handmade box frame. We then "float" the canvas inside a wooden frame, which is available in a range of colours (black, dark brown, oak, antique gold and white). This is a wonderful way to present a map without glazing in front. See some examples of float framed canvas maps and explore the differences between my different finishes.
For something truly unique, this map is also available in "Unique 3D", our trademarked process that dramatically transforms the map so that it has a wonderful sense of depth. We combine the original map with detailed topography and elevation data, so that mountains and the terrain really "pop". For more info and examples of 3D maps, check my Unique 3D page.
Many of our maps and art prints are chosen as thoughtful gifts for homes, offices, studies and meaningful places.
Choose a framed option for the easiest ready-to-hang gift, or choose an unframed print if the recipient may prefer to select their own frame.
We make orders locally in 23 countries around the world, so gifts can often be produced close to the recipient. This helps them arrive faster, travel more safely, and avoid customs or import duty surprises.
- We can deliver directly to the recipient
- Framed pieces arrive ready to hang
- Unframed prints are carefully packed in a strong protective tube
- Almost every order is made locally, for faster, safer gifting
- 90-day returns give the recipient time to decide
If you are not sure what to choose, please contact us. We can help you pick the right map, size, finish or delivery option.
Most orders are made locally and delivered in around 2–3 working days, depending on the product, size and destination.
We print and frame maps and artwork in 23 countries around the world, so your order is usually made close to you or your recipient. That means faster delivery, less time in transit, and no customs or import duty surprises.
Personalised and customised pieces usually take an extra 1–2 working days, because we prepare your design and send it to you for approval before printing.
Very large framed orders can take a little longer, as they need extra care in production and delivery.
Every order is carefully packaged: unframed prints are sent in a strong protective tube, while framed pieces are securely packed with protective materials around the frame.
If you need your order by a particular date, please contact us before ordering. We’ll check the best production route and delivery option for your location.
Express delivery is available at checkout for most countries. Next-day delivery is available in the UK, US, Singapore and the UAE.
Your order is covered by our 90-day returns policy and 10-year guarantee.
Our standard frame is a gallery-style black ash hardwood frame, with a simple, modern look. It is approximately 20mm (0.8in) wide. You can also view some lovely customer photos of framed maps and art.
We use super-clear acrylic glazing, also known as Perspex or Acrylite, instead of traditional glass. It is lighter, safer, and has lower reflectivity, giving the artwork a clearer, cleaner appearance.
Six standard frame colours are available at no extra cost: black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white, and antique gold. Custom framing and mounting/matting is also available for customers looking for something more specific.
Most maps, art prints, and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced wooden box frame, and then float the piece within a wooden outer frame. The finished result is beautifully presented, with no glazing between you and the artwork.
All frames are supplied ready to hang, with either string or brackets fitted to the back. Very large frames will include heavy-duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.
We can also supply old maps and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag, and other materials.
If you would prefer to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read our size guide before ordering.
Every Unique Maps piece begins with an authentic cartographic source or an original design from our London studio.
For our historic maps, we source rare originals from libraries, archives, auction houses and private collections around the world. We carefully restore each map for print—repairing age-related damage, balancing colour and improving clarity while preserving its original detail, texture and character.
Once restored, the map is prepared for your chosen size and finish. Your piece is then printed and, where selected, framed close to its delivery destination.
Our map prints use acid-free 200gsm archival matte paper and fade-resistant pigment inks, creating a rich, non-glossy finish designed to last. Framed maps use crystal-clear optical acrylic and arrive ready to hang.
Canvas, cotton-rag and other specialist presentations are also available. Learn more about our materials and finishes.
Personalising your map
You can add a short title or dedication, mark one meaningful place, or request one considered visual detail. For personalised designs, we send a proof before printing and you can request changes before approval.
For more complex bespoke commissions, contact our design team.
Original or Aged
Choose Original for true-to-source colour, or Aged for a warmer, richer antique character created with our specialist ageing process. See examples of our Aged maps.
If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me and I'll get it fixed ASAP, free of charge. Please see my returns and refund policy for more information.
I am very confident you will like your restored map or art print. I have been doing this since 1984. I'm a 5-star Etsy seller. I have sold tens of thousands of maps and art prints and have over 5,000 real 5-star reviews. My work has been featured in interior design magazines, on the BBC, and on the walls of dozens of 5-star hotels.
I use a unique process to restore maps and artwork that is massively time consuming and labour intensive. Hunting down the original maps and illustrations can take months. I use state of the art and eye-wateringly expensive technology to scan and restore them. As a result, I guarantee my maps and art prints are a cut above the rest. I stand by my products and will always make sure you're 100% happy with what you receive.
Almost all of my maps and art prints look amazing at large sizes (200cm, 6.5ft+) and I can frame and deliver them to you as well, via special oversized courier. Contact me to discuss your specific needs.
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