Old Corfu Harbor Nautical Chart by Heather, 1802: Venetian Fortresses, Strategic Maritime Routes

The Harbor of Corfu by William Heather, 1802

Immerse yourself in the rich maritime history of the Mediterranean with "The Harbor of Corfu," a meticulously detailed chart created by the esteemed British cartographer William Heather in 1802. This chart is not merely a navigational aid but a window into the early 19th-century seafaring world, showcasing Heather's commitment to enhancing the accuracy and aesthetic of nautical maps. As part of Heather's groundbreaking work, "The New Mediterranean Pilot," this chart represents the first English endeavor to systematically document the Mediterranean's ports, a task previously dominated by French, Italian, and Spanish cartographers.

Navigational and Topographical Details

The chart is exquisitely detailed, orienting the viewer with the southwest at the top, a unique feature that sets it apart from conventional map orientations. It includes critical navigational information such as soundings, anchorages, and currents, essential for the sailors of the time. The topographical features are delicately engraved, highlighting not only the harbor but also the surrounding areas including the city of Corfu, the serene island of Vido, and the broader mainland of Greece. This level of detail provides a comprehensive view of the area, reflecting the strategic importance of Corfu as a maritime hub in the Ionian Sea.

Architectural and Geographic Highlights

The map is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, meticulously documenting key structures such as the Old and New Fortresses of Corfu, Venetian architectural marvels that have guarded the town since the Venetian period. It also charts lesser-known islands like Vido, Lazzaretto, Condogliano, Pontikonisi, and Spartivento, each with its own story and significance in the tapestry of Corfu's maritime history. These elements not only add to the map's utility but also its intrigue, inviting viewers to explore the layers of history each site represents.

Artistic Merit and Rarity

Beyond its practical applications, the chart is a work of art, notable for its fine engraving by John Stephenson, a renowned London engraver whose monogram adds a mark of quality and prestige. The artistic style of the chart, with its detailed compass rose and scale bar, reflects the high standards of cartography in the early 19th century. The rarity of this chart adds to its allure; as an extremely rare piece on the market, it holds significant value for collectors and historians alike, representing a unique piece of maritime history.

Historical and Collectible Value

"The Harbor of Corfu" is more than just a chart; it is a historical document that captures a moment in time, offering insights into the maritime capabilities and geographical knowledge of the early 1800s. For collectors, historians, and aficionados of nautical maps, this chart is a prized possession that not only enhances a collection but also serves as a continual source of exploration and discovery. Its inclusion in Heather's "The New Mediterranean Pilot" underscores its importance in the evolution of Mediterranean cartography, making it a must-have for those passionate about the history of mapmaking and navigation.

Notable Places on This Map

• The Island of Corfu, located in the Ionian Sea, off the west coast of Greece.
• The town of Corfu, the capital of the island, located on the eastern coast.
• The Old Fortress, a Venetian fortress located in the town of Corfu.
• The New Fortress, a Venetian fortress located on the eastern coast of the island.
• The Port of Corfu, located on the eastern coast of the island.
• The island of Vido, located just off the eastern coast of the island of Corfu.
• The island of Lazzaretto, located just off the eastern coast of the island of Corfu.
• The island of Condogliano, located just off the eastern coast of the island of Corfu.
• The island of Pontikonisi, located just off the eastern coast of the island of Corfu.
• The island of Spartivento, located just off the southern coast of the island of Corfu.

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Detailed soundings, anchorages, and currents essential for navigation.
• Topographical features that highlight the strategic maritime locations.
• A finely crafted compass rose and scale bar, enhancing the map's utility and aesthetic.

Historical and Design Context

• Created by William Heather in 1802, as part of "The New Mediterranean Pilot."
• The first English attempt at a collection of ports of the Mediterranean, following earlier French and Italian endeavors.
• Notably refined engravings by John Stephenson, a distinguished London engraver.
• Represents a significant advancement in the accuracy and detail of nautical charts of the Mediterranean region.
• Part of a rare collection, making it a valuable find for collectors and historians.

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.