Scandinavia is a region famous for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history. It has always fascinated explorers, historians, and mapmakers. From ancient times to today, cartographers have tried to capture the unique geography and details of this northern European region through antique maps of Scandinavia. Scandinavia is typically defined more restrictively and primarily refers to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. While the broader definition sometimes includes Finland and Iceland, the term “Scandinavia” traditionally focuses on these three countries, which share historical, cultural, and linguistic ties.
In this blog, we will explore five of the most interesting historical maps of Scandinavia. These maps give us a look into the past and show how mapmaking has developed over the years in this part of the world.
Carta Marina Map of Scandinavia from 1539
The Carta Marina, created by Olaus Magnus in 1539, is one of the most remarkable and detailed maps of Scandinavia from the early modern period. Created by Swedish writer Olaus Magnus, this map is like a storybook of 16th-century Scandinavian life. The Carta Marina covers the entire Scandinavian region, including modern-day Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and parts of Finland and Iceland. It vividly illustrates the coastlines, major towns, and natural features, making it one of the most comprehensive maps of its era.
One of the standout features of the Carta Marina is its focus on the Scandinavian coastline, especially Sweden and Norway. The map carefully details the fjords, rivers, and mountain ranges, providing a clear understanding of the region’s rugged terrain. Cities like Stockholm and Oslo are marked, along with other important towns, helping us see how these areas were understood in the 16th century. But what truly sets the Carta Marina apart is its inclusion of mythical creatures and sea monsters, which were commonly believed to inhabit these waters.
The map is filled with illustrations of large fish, sea serpents, and other fantastical beings, particularly in the northern and western seas. These creatures not only add artistic flair but also reflect the superstitions and fears of the people during that time. Additionally, the map includes detailed annotations in Latin, describing various places and the stories associated with them. These notes provide insights into how the people of the time viewed their world, blending fact and legend.
Interesting and Historic About Scandinavia Maps
- Early Scandinavian maps often featured mythical sea monsters and creatures, reflecting the mysterious and perilous nature of the northern seas.
- Historical maps of Scandinavia show changing political boundaries due to wars, alliances, and treaties, offering a visual record of regional power dynamics.
- Old maps of Scandinavia were often distorted or incomplete, but advancements in navigation and cartography led to more precise representations over time.
- Innovations like grid systems and improved projections marked significant advancements in Scandinavian cartography.
- Medieval Scandinavia maps highlight crucial trade and maritime routes, reflecting the economic importance of Scandinavian waterways.
Sebastian Münster’s Map of Scandinavia in 1544
Sebastian Münster’s Scandinavia Map (1544) is a remarkable piece of Renaissance cartography, offering one of the earliest printed depictions of the Scandinavian region. Münster, a German cartographer, and scholar, was known for his influential work Cosmographia, one of the most popular geographical books of the 16th century. His Scandinavian map is a part of this larger work, reflecting the knowledge and perceptions of Northern Europe during the mid-1500s. This map is particularly significant because it represents one of the earliest attempts to systematically chart the Scandinavian Peninsula, including Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and parts of Finland.
Although the map is not as detailed or accurate by modern standards, it was groundbreaking for its time. Münster’s map captures the rugged coastlines, large forests, and numerous islands that characterize the region, although the geographical proportions are somewhat distorted, which was common in early maps due to limited exploration and knowledge. The map not only outlines the physical landscape but also incorporates illustrations of local wildlife, such as bears and stags, which were abundant in the region. These illustrations were likely based on descriptions from travelers and explorers who had ventured into the northern lands.
Münster also included depictions of ships and sea monsters in the surrounding waters, reflecting the dangers and myths associated with the North Atlantic and Baltic Seas during that era. The presence of these elements highlights the blend of fact and fiction that characterized many early maps of remote regions like Scandinavia. Explore the Vintage Map of Europe (1851) on Old Mapster to see how the Scandinavian Peninsula was represented in the mid-19th century. Discover the historical changes and geographical insights that shaped the region’s development.
Septentrionalium Regionum by Abraham Ortelius in 1570
Abraham Ortelius’ Septentrionalium Regionum (1570) is a significant and beautifully crafted map that provides a detailed view of the northern regions of Europe, including Scandinavia. Created by Abraham Ortelius, a Flemish cartographer known for his pioneering work in developing the first modern atlas, Theatrum Orbis Terrarum, this map is a key example of 16th-century cartographic art. The Septentrionalium Regionum, which translates to “Northern Regions,” covers the Scandinavian Peninsula, including Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, as well as parts of Iceland, Finland, and the Baltic region.
Ortelius’ map is celebrated for its accuracy and attention to detail, particularly given the limited knowledge and exploration of the northern territories at the time. The map is richly decorated with cartouches, coats of arms, and detailed illustrations. The map is bordered with figures representing the winds, which were a common feature in maps of this period, symbolizing the importance of maritime navigation in these northern waters. Ortelius’ map is notable for its relatively accurate depiction of the Scandinavian coastlines, particularly the intricate fjords of Norway and the archipelagos of Sweden.
The map also highlights major cities and towns, such as Stockholm, Copenhagen, and Bergen, offering a glimpse into the urban centers of the region during the 16th century. The inclusion of these details underscores the growing importance of Scandinavia in European trade and politics at the time. Another important aspect of the Septentrionalium Regionum is its depiction of the Northern Sea and the mysterious lands beyond, including references to Greenland and the mythical island of Thule, which was often associated with the farthest north. These elements reflect the blend of known geography and speculative cartography that characterized many Renaissance maps.
John Speed’s Map of Denmark and Scandinavia (1626)
John Speed’s Map of Denmark and Scandinavia (1626) is a significant work in the history of cartography, offering a detailed and artistic representation of the Scandinavian region during the early 17th century. Created by the renowned English cartographer John Speed, this map is part of his celebrated atlas, The Theatre of the Empire of Great Britaine, which was widely regarded for its detailed and decorative maps. The map primarily covers the countries of Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, which together make up the core of the Scandinavian Peninsula.
The map of Scandinavia by John Speed highlights the political boundaries and geographical features of the time, providing valuable insights into how these countries were perceived and understood during the 17th century. One of the most striking features of this map is its intricate design. The map is richly decorated with illustrations that include sailing ships, sea creatures, and coats of arms, adding both aesthetic appeal and historical context. The upper part of the map includes inset views of major Scandinavian cities, such as Copenhagen and Stockholm, which are depicted in panoramic style, showing the layout and significant landmarks of these cities as they appeared in the early 1600s.
The map accurately represents the Baltic Sea, the Kattegat, and the Skagerrak, crucial maritime areas for trade and exploration during this period. Additionally, the map features detailed cartouches that provide historical and geographical information, further enriching the viewer’s understanding of the region. These cartouches often included explanations about the local customs, governance, and significant events of the time.
Antique Joan Blaeu’s Scandinavia Map (1667)
Joan Blaeu’s Scandinavia Map (1667) is a standout example of 17th-century cartography, showcasing both precision and artistry. Created by the Dutch cartographer Joan Blaeu, this map is part of his esteemed Atlas Maior, known for its meticulous detail and decorative flair. The map provides a comprehensive view of the Scandinavian Peninsula, including Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, along with parts of Finland and Iceland. Blaeu’s depiction of the region is notable for its accuracy, capturing the intricate coastlines, fjords of Norway, and the lakes and rivers of Sweden with impressive detail.
The map is adorned with ornate cartouches, detailed border decorations, and illustrations of local wildlife and sea creatures, reflecting the artistic style of the era. These decorative elements enhance the map’s visual appeal and showcase Blaeu’s skill as a cartographer. Additionally, the map includes inset views of important cities such as Copenhagen, Stockholm, and Oslo, providing detailed representations of their layouts and key landmarks. This feature offers valuable insights into the urban development of these cities in the 17th century.
The map also benefits from Blaeu’s advanced cartographic techniques, which were informed by improved surveys and exploration. As a result, the Scandinavia map from 1667 presents a more accurate portrayal of the region compared to earlier maps. Latin annotations on the map provide further context, detailing geographical and cultural information about the depicted areas. Overall, Joan Blaeu’s Scandinavia Map (1667) is both a visually stunning and historically significant artifact, reflecting the high level of craftsmanship and knowledge in 17th-century cartography.