Rare Old Map of Greece and Malta by Arrowsmith, 1844: Corfu, Valletta, Ionian Sea, Inset Map, Topography

The "Map of the Ionian Islands and Malta" by John Arrowsmith, published in 1844, is a remarkable cartographic masterpiece that captures a pivotal moment in Mediterranean history. This map offers a detailed depiction of the Ionian Islands and Malta during the British period, a time when these regions were of immense strategic importance. Arrowsmith, a renowned English cartographer, was celebrated for his precision and dedication to detail, and this map is a testament to his expertise. The intricate lines and careful delineation of borders reflect the geopolitical tensions of the era, providing a window into the complex history of these islands.

The Ionian Islands, prominently featured on the map, were under British protection at the time, following a tumultuous history of French, Russian-Ottoman, and Venetian rule. This map not only highlights the political boundaries but also showcases the rich topographical features of the islands, from the rugged mountains of Corfu to the serene coastlines of Zakynthos and Kefalonia. The map captures the essence of these islands as they stood on the brink of unification with Greece, a significant historical transition that would occur two decades later.

Malta, another focal point of the map, is depicted with meticulous attention to detail, reflecting its role as a key naval base in the Mediterranean. The map includes notable cities such as Valletta and Mdina, illustrating their strategic positions. The inclusion of Malta alongside the Ionian Islands underscores the British Empire's naval interests in the region, highlighting the interconnectedness of these territories within the broader geopolitical landscape of the 19th century.

Arrowsmith's map also features a large inset of the Mediterranean region, providing a broader context for the islands' significance. This inset not only situates the Ionian Islands and Malta within the Mediterranean but also emphasizes their importance as crossroads of commerce and culture. The detailed depiction of bodies of water, such as the Ionian and Mediterranean Seas, further enhances the map's utility for understanding the maritime routes that were crucial to trade and military strategy during this period.

The historical significance of this map extends beyond its geographical accuracy; it serves as a narrative of colonial ambition, cultural exchange, and the quest for independence. The map is a visual chronicle of the Ionian Islands' journey from colonial rule to eventual unification with Greece, a poignant reminder of the enduring struggle for self-determination. For collectors and history enthusiasts alike, this map is not merely a representation of geography but a captivating story of resilience and change.

Cities and towns on this map

• Greece (Ionian Islands):
• Corfu
• Zakynthos (Zante)
• Kefalonia (Cephalonia)
• Lefkada (Santa Maura)
• Ithaca
• Paxos
• Antipaxos

• Kythira (Cerigo)

• Malta:

• Valletta
• Mdina
• Rabat
• Vittoriosa
• Senglea
• Cospicua

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Inset maps:
• Large inset map of the Mediterranean region.
• Bodies of water:
• Ionian Sea
• Mediterranean Sea
• Borders:
• Outlined borders of the Ionian Islands and Malta
• Other notable features:
• Detailed topographical features including mountains and coastal outlines.

Historical and design context

• Mapmaker/Publisher: John Arrowsmith, published by Edward Stanford
• Themes and topics:
• Political and physical features of the Ionian Islands and Malta during the British period.
• Historical context of the Ionian Islands under various rules, including French, Russian-Ottoman, and British.
• Design and style:
• Detailed cartographic style typical of mid-19th century maps, with emphasis on topographical features.
• Historical significance:
• Captures the Ionian Islands during a period of British protection before their union with Greece.
• Reflects the strategic importance of these islands in the Mediterranean and their colonial history.

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 100in (250cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 16in (40cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.

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.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and customised products take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes 1 or 2 days.

Please note that very large framed orders usually take longer to make and deliver. 

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 and artwork in 23 countries around the world. This means your order will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and ensures that it won't be damaged during delivery. You'll never pay customs or import duty, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps and art prints are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all orders within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks, mugs and tote bags) 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).

Next Day delivery is also available in some countries (US, UK, Singapore, UAE) but please try to order early in the day so that we can get it sent out on time.

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, art and illustrations are also available as a framed canvas. We use matte (not shiny) cotton canvas, stretch it over a sustainably sourced box wood frame, and then 'float' the piece within a wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing to get in the way.

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 and artwork on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map or artwork yourself, please read my size guide first.

My maps are extremely high quality reproductions of original maps.

I source original, rare maps from libraries, auction houses and private collections around the world, restore them at my London workshop, and then use specialist giclée inks and printers to create beautiful maps that look even better than the original.

My maps are printed on acid-free archival matte (not glossy) paper that feels very high quality and almost like card. In technical terms the paper weight/thickness is 10mil/200gsm. It's perfect for framing.

I print with Epson ultrachrome giclée UV fade resistant pigment inks - some of the best inks you can find.

I can also make maps on canvas, cotton rag and other exotic materials.

Learn more about The Unique Maps Co.

Map personalisation

If you're looking for the perfect anniversary or housewarming gift, I can personalise your map to make it truly unique. For example, I can add a short message, or highlight an important location, or add your family's coat of arms.

The options are almost infinite. Please see my map personalisation page for some wonderful examples of what's possible.

To order a personalised map, select "personalise your map" before adding it to your basket.

Get in touch if you're looking for more complex customisations and personalisations.

Map ageing

I have been asked hundreds of times over the years by customers if they could buy a map that looks even older.

Well, now you can, by selecting Aged before you add a map to your basket.

All the product photos you see on this page show the map in its Original form. This is what the map looks like today.

If you select Aged, I will age your map by hand, using a special and unique process developed through years of studying old maps, talking to researchers to understand the chemistry of aging paper, and of course... lots of practice!

If you're unsure, stick to the Original colour of the map. If you want something a bit darker and older looking, go for Aged.

See some amazing examples of Aged maps.

If you are not happy with your order for any reason, contact me for a no-quibble refund.

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 4,000 real 5-star reviews.

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 - that's why I can offer a no-quibble refund.

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.