Baedeker Collection

Damage to Canterbury Cathedral Library, WW2 - Baedeker Blitz
" Canterbury under fire" - Damage sustained to the Cathedal LIbrary examined by Dr. Hewlett Johnson, Dean of Canterbury, by bombing on the city by German planes of the luftwaffe during WW2

Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890) English orientalist and explorer
537300 Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890) English orientalist and explorer. Cartoon by Edward Linley Sambourne for Punch, London, 13 May 1882

Map of Berlin Center, from a travel guide Baedekers Northeast Germany, 1892. Artist: Wagner & Debes, Leipzig
Map of Berlin Center, from a travel guide Baedekers Northeast Germany, 1892. From a private collection

Damage to Canterbury during WW2 - Baedeker Blitz
" Canterbury under fire" - Damage sustained by bombing on the city by German planes of the luftwaffe during WW2

Damage to Exeter during WW2 - Baedeker Blitz
" Exeter under fire" - Damage sustained by bombing on the city by German planes of the luftwaffe during WW2. The Baedeker Blitz (or Baedeker raids) were targetted raids

Richard Francis Burton (1821-1890) English orientalist and explorer. Cartoon by Edward Linley Sambourne for Punch, London, 13 May 1882, showing Burton in the eastern dress he adopted on his travels

KARL BAEDEKER (1801-1859). German publisher. Wood engraving, German, 19th century

Baedeker Updating 1915
Karl Baedeker takes notes on the changing landscape for an upto date guide to France. If I were him I d wait three years or so

Tourists in a Gondola
American honeymooners, sightseeing Venice from their gondola, consult their Baedeker to check which buildings they should admire

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"Baedeker: A Journey through Time and Destruction" Step into the world of Baedeker, a name synonymous with travel guides and exploration. But beyond its reputation as a company lies a history intertwined with war, damage, and resilience. During World War II, Canterbury Cathedral Library fell victim to the devastating Baedeker Blitz. This iconic symbol of knowledge suffered irreparable damage, leaving behind scars that serve as reminders of the horrors of war. Richard Francis Burton, an English orientalist and explorer, was no stranger to adventure. His travels took him far and wide, capturing the imaginations of many. From his encounters in distant lands to his daring expeditions, Burton's legacy lives on through tales told by those inspired by his audacity. In 1892, Baedekers Northeast Germany travel guide featured a map of Berlin Center meticulously crafted by Wagner & Debes. This snapshot from the past allows us to glimpse into a time when exploration was at its peak. The devastation caused during WWII extended beyond Canterbury; Exeter also faced destruction during the infamous Baedeker Blitz. These cities bore witness to unimaginable loss but emerged stronger than ever before. A wood engraving from the 19th century captures Karl Baedeker himself - the German publisher who revolutionized travel guides for generations to come. His vision brought maps and information right into travelers' hands long before technology made it effortless. Even amidst turmoil and conflict in 1915, Baedeker continued updating their guides - a testament to their commitment towards providing accurate information despite challenging circumstances. And what is travel without indulging in unique experiences? Tourists gliding along Venetian canals in gondolas embody the spirit of exploration that has been ingrained within us since ancient times – an enduring desire for discovery that continues today. Baedeker's story is one marked by both triumphs and tribulations.