Unearth the rich tapestry of the past with our meticulously detailed map, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' - a Latin title that translates to 'The Kingdoms of Spain and Portugal'. Crafted by the celebrated mapmaker Nicolaes Visscher II in 1690, this exquisite map invites you on a journey through time, presenting an accurate depiction of the political and administrative divisions of the Iberian Peninsula during the late 17th century. Visscher, a member of the esteemed Visscher family of cartographers, was known for his remarkable precision and artistry, hallmarks that are clearly visible in this masterpiece.
The map's geographical scope encompasses the modern-day territories of Spain and Portugal, and showcases a number of significant cities including Madrid, Lisbon, Barcelona, Gibraltar, and Porto. Each city is rendered with painstaking accuracy, offering a unique window into the urban landscapes of the time. The map also highlights a myriad of natural features such as forests, waterways, canals, and mountains, providing a comprehensive overview of the region's diverse terrain.
In addition to its geographical details, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' is a visual feast of decorative elements. The map is adorned with ornate cartouches, a coat of arms, and a compass rose, elements that not only enhance its aesthetic appeal but also provide valuable insights into the artistic conventions of the period. The map's hand-colored outlines further accentuate its visual charm, lending it a vibrant and captivating allure.
Beyond its visual and geographical elements, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' also serves as a historical document, chronicling the political landscape of the Iberian Peninsula in the late 17th century. The map's detailed depiction of political and administrative boundaries offers a glimpse into the region's complex political history, making it an invaluable resource for history enthusiasts and collectors alike. With its blend of historical accuracy, artistic craftsmanship, and geographical detail, 'Hispaniae et Portugalliae Regna' is more than just a map - it's a portal to a bygone era.
Some of the significant locations shown on this map:
Kingdom of Spain
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Madrid: Known as the capital of Spain, it was already a significant city by 1690. Historical name: Mayrit.
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Barcelona: An important city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich history and culture. Historical name: Barcino.
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Seville: Located in southern Spain, it was the economic center of the Spanish empire due to its port. Historical name: Hispalis.
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Valencia: Known for its arts and sciences, it's located on the southeastern coast. Historical name: Valentia.
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Zaragoza: Located in northeastern Spain, it's known for its landmarks like the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar. Historical name: Caesaraugusta.
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Malaga: A port city in southern Spain, known for its high-rise hotels and resorts. Historical name: Malaka.
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Murcia: Known for its agriculture, especially its vineyards. Historical name: Mursiya.
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Palma: The capital city of the Balearic Islands, known for its beach resorts. Historical name: Palma.
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Bilbao: Located in northern Spain, it's known for the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao. Historical name: Bilbo.
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Valladolid: Once the capital of Spain, it's known for its historic buildings. Historical name: Pucela.
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Cordoba: Known for the Great Mosque of Cordoba, an important Islamic landmark. Historical name: Qurtuba.
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Toledo: Known for its medieval Arab, Jewish and Christian monuments. Historical name: Toletum.
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Granada: Known for the Alhambra, a Moorish citadel and palace. Historical name: Gharnata.
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Salamanca: Known for the University of Salamanca, one of the oldest universities in Europe. Historical name: Salamantica.
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Burgos: Known for its Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Historical name: Burgus.
Kingdom of Portugal
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Lisbon: The capital of Portugal, it's known for its colonial history. Historical name: Olisipo.
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Porto: Known for its stately bridges and port wine production. Historical name: Portus Cale.
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Viseu: Known for its historical buildings, especially the Viseu Cathedral. Historical name: Viso.
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Braga: Known for its religious history and monuments, like the Braga Cathedral. Historical name: Bracara Augusta.
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Coimbra: Known for the University of Coimbra, one of the oldest universities in continuous operation in the world. Historical name: Conimbriga.
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Setubal: Known for its fishing industry and natural parks. Historical name: Caetobriga.
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Faro: Known for its preserved medieval quarters and lively nightlife. Historical name: Ossonoba.
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Evora: Known for its well-preserved old town center, still partially enclosed by medieval walls. Historical name: Ebora.
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Guarda: Known for its high altitude and historic cathedral. Historical name: Guarda.
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Beja: Known for its rich history and the Beja Castle. Historical name: Pax Julia.
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Santarem: Known for its gothic churches. Historical name: Scalabis.
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Portalegre: Known for its tapestry and silk manufacturing. Historical name: Portalegre.
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Castelo Branco: Known for its historical buildings and gardens. Historical name: Castelo Branco.
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Aveiro: Known for its canals and colorful moliceiro boats. Historical name: Aveiro.
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Leiria: Known for its castle and historic city center. Historical name: Leiria.
Notable Natural Phenomena
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Pyrenees: A range of mountains forming a natural border between Spain and France.
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Sierra Nevada: A mountain range in southern Spain known for its unique flora and fauna.
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Tagus River: The longest river on the Iberian Peninsula, flowing through Spain and Portugal.
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Douro Valley: A notable wine region in Portugal.
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Ria Formosa: A network of islands and lagoons along the Algarve coast in Portugal.
Notable Historical Events (1600-1690)
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The Treaty of Madrid (1661): Ended the conflict between Spain and Portugal over territories in the Americas and Asia.
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The Portuguese Restoration War (1640-1668): Led to the end of the Iberian Union and the recognition of Portugal's sovereignty.
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The expulsion of the Moriscos (1609-1614): A mass expulsion of Muslims from Spain by King Philip III.
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 all sizes: 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 24x30in (61x76cm), 32x40in (81.5x102cm), 40x50in (102x127cm), 48x60in (122x153cm) and 56x70in (142x178cm), but
it looks even better when printed large.
I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 90in (229cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for
larger, customised or different framing options.
The model in the listing images is holding the 16x20in (40.5x51cm) 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 of Europe and European cities 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.