CATALAN ATLAS Meaning and
Definition
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The Catalan Atlas refers to an important medieval cartographic work produced in Majorca, Spain, around 1375. It is a highly detailed portolan chart, a type of navigational map created by Mediterranean sailors, and is attributed to the Majorcan Jewish cartographer Abraham Cresques. The atlas is primarily written in Catalan, and it is thought to have been commissioned by Charles V of France, who desired a comprehensive visual representation of the known world.
The Catalan Atlas is known for its exquisite craftsmanship and accuracy, providing valuable information on geography, topography, and cartographic techniques of the time. It consists of six vellum sheets, beautifully illuminated and measuring a sizable four feet by six feet when fully assembled. The atlas presents a unique perspective of the world, depicting Europe, Africa, and Asia, with each continent facing a separate page.
The maps within the Catalan Atlas represent a combination of historical knowledge, mythological lore, and travelers' accounts of the period. They include detailed descriptions of kingdoms, cities, rivers, mountains, islands, and even vignettes illustrating cultural customs and wildlife. The atlas also features a depiction of the unknown continent of Antillia, which some speculate may have influenced later maps of the Americas.
Due to its historical and cartographic significance, the Catalan Atlas is highly prized among collectors and scholars. It provides a remarkable glimpse into the medieval worldview, blending scientific observations and medieval imagination. The atlas serves as a testament to the skill and knowledge of medieval cartographers, greatly contributing to our understanding of the evolution of mapmaking during this era.
Etymology of CATALAN ATLAS
The word "Catalan" in "Catalan Atlas" refers to the region of Catalonia, which is located in northeastern Spain. "Atlas" comes from the name of the mythological Greek Titan Atlas, known for carrying the celestial spheres on his shoulders. In the context of maps and geography, an atlas is a collection of maps or charts. Therefore, the term "Catalan Atlas" refers to a collection of maps or charts associated with the region of Catalonia.
