Georgia on Printed World Maps in 15th-18th Centuries

Abstract

Describing Georgia has been an essential part of the work of European geographers and cartographers throughout the centuries. In one form or another, Georgia appears in the earliest cartographic works, the number of which reaches the thousands. Some of these maps focus directly on Georgia. In contrast, others depict broader continents or geographic regions, and others show various continents or vast regions, all while conveying important information about Georgia. This article reviews printed world maps created between the 15th and 18th centuries, which are particularly relevant to the study of Georgia. We have identified over 100 such maps that contain geographic, cartographic, and ethnographic information related to Georgia. The study of world maps is essential because they serve as unique primary sources for understanding Georgia’s historical place and role among the countries and peoples of the world. Based on these maps, we can also examine the ideas and perceptions that European society had regarding Georgia. The article summarizes the world maps recognized as part of Europe’s cartographic heritage. We used four world maps depicting Georgia for illustration. Fragments related to Georgia are presented separately in the article in an enlarged form. Two of these maps represent the world in the ancient era, while the other two represent the “modern” one.