Portulan Collection

"Exploring the World: The Fascinating Portulan Charts of Joan Martines" Step back in time and immerse yourself in the intricate world charts

Portulan Collection: Portolan Map of the Mediterranean and connecting seas

Portolan Map of the Mediterranean and connecting seas
3507730 Portolan Map of the Mediterranean and connecting seas; (add.info.: Portolan Map of the Mediterranean and connecting seas)

Portulan Collection: Map of Western Mediterran Sea

Map of Western Mediterran Sea
3499621 Map of Western Mediterran Sea; (add.info.: Map of Western Mediterran Sea. European coast from Cartagena (Spain) until the southof Naples. Corsica and Sardinia islands. North African coast

Portulan Collection: Map of Europe and coasts of the North of Africa, 1587

Map of Europe and coasts of the North of Africa, 1587
3499620 Map of Europe and coasts of the North of Africa, 1587 by Martines, Joan (16th century); (add.info.: Map of Europe and coasts of the North of Africa)

Portulan Collection: Catalan Atlas (1375). Detail of Spain and North Africa

Catalan Atlas (1375). Detail of Spain and North Africa. Reproduction of the original which is located in the National Library in Paris

Atlas of Joan Martines, Messina, 1582. Portulan chart of the island of Sicily

Portulan Collection: Map of Charles V, Map of Mecia de Viladestes, a portulan of Europe and North Africa

Map of Charles V, Map of Mecia de Viladestes, a portulan of Europe and North Africa
XIR55750 Map of Charles V, Map of Mecia de Viladestes, a portulan of Europe and North Africa, 1413 (vellum) by Spanish School, (15th century); Bibliotheque Nationale, Paris

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"Exploring the World: The Fascinating Portulan Charts of Joan Martines" Step back in time and immerse yourself in the intricate world charts, meticulously crafted maps that guided sailors across vast oceans. Dating back to the 16th century, these cartographic masterpieces provided invaluable navigation tools for seafarers venturing into uncharted territories. One such remarkable example is the Map of Europe and coasts of North Africa from 1587. This detailed portrayal showcases the intricate coastlines, highlighting major ports and landmarks along the way. Similarly, the Catalan Atlas (1375) offers a glimpse into Spain and North Africa's geographical intricacies during this era. Joan Martines' Atlas takes us on an extraordinary journey through different continents. His Portulan chart of Sicily reveals its coastal features with utmost precision, while his depiction of South America captures Panama's essence as a pivotal point between two great oceans. Venturing further westward, Martines presents a captivating Portulan chart showcasing Central America and Caribbean islands – essential references for explorers seeking new trade routes or conquests. Meanwhile, his West Coast chart unveils Peru's mystique as part of an emerging New World. The Mediterranean Sea comes alive in another one of Martines' creations – a mesmerizing Portulan chart displaying its numerous islands in exquisite detail. From Corsica to Crete, each island is carefully outlined alongside vital navigational information. Not forgetting Africa's western shores; Martines provides insight into their contours through yet another striking Portulan chart. These maps were indispensable for traders navigating treacherous waters en route to rich African markets. Lastly, we encounter a stunning depiction capturing the allure of Canary Islands and Madeira archipelagos – crucial stopovers for European ships embarking on transatlantic voyages towards newfound lands across the Atlantic Ocean.