Old Map of Greece by Speed, 1676: Athens, Corinth, Aegean Sea, Ships

Step into the world of 17th-century cartography with John Speed's exquisite "Map of Greece," originally published in "A Prospect of the Most Famous Parts of the World" in 1676. This map captures the intricate political and physical landscapes of Greece and its surrounding regions during a time when cartography was both an art and a science. Speed, a renowned English cartographer, was celebrated for his detailed and decorative maps, which provided Europeans with a window into distant lands. His work is a testament to the era's exploration and the burgeoning curiosity about the world beyond familiar shores.

John Speed's map is more than just a geographical representation; it is a historical document that reflects the geopolitical climate of the 17th century. The map illustrates Greece's complex political boundaries and its relationship with neighboring territories, including parts of the Ottoman Empire and the Balkan regions. The detailed depiction of the Aegean, Ionian, and Adriatic Seas, along with the Black Sea, showcases the strategic importance of these waters in trade and cultural exchange.

The map is adorned with intricate illustrations, including ships and mythical sea creatures, which add a touch of whimsy and artistry. These elements highlight the blend of scientific precision and artistic flair that characterized Speed's work. The decorative style not only serves an aesthetic purpose but also provides insight into the maritime culture and the significance of naval exploration during this period.

Within the borders of this map, one can find ancient cities such as Athens, Corinth, Sparta, and Delphi, each with its own rich history and cultural legacy. The map also extends to include significant cities like Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) and Thessalonica, underscoring the interconnectedness of these regions. These cities were not only centers of political power but also hubs of intellectual and artistic activity, shaping the course of Western civilization.

John Speed's map is a captivating blend of history, art, and geography, offering a glimpse into a world that was both familiar and mysterious to its contemporary audience. It serves as a reminder of the enduring allure of exploration and the human desire to chart the unknown. This map is not just a representation of Greece; it is a narrative of discovery, ambition, and the timeless quest to understand our world.

Cities and towns on this map

• Greece:
• Athens
• Corinth
• Sparta

• Delphi

• Surrounding Regions:

• Constantinople (Istanbul)
• Thessalonica (Thessaloniki)
• Byzantium

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Illustrations:
• Decorative ships and sea creatures in the seas
• Bodies of Water:
• The Sea Aegeaum (Aegean Sea)
• The Sea Adriaticum (Adriatic Sea)
• The Sea Ionium (Ionian Sea)
• The Sea of Lycia
• The Evxine Sea (Black Sea)
• Borders: Political boundaries of regions within Greece and surrounding territories
• Mountains: Mountain ranges are illustrated but not specifically labeled

Historical and design context

• Name of the Map: Map of Greece by John Speed
• Publication: Originally published in "A Prospect of the Most Famous Parts of the World."
• Date: 1676
• Mapmaker/Publisher: John Speed, published by Bassett & Chiswell
• Themes:
• Detailed political and physical representation of Greece
• Illustrates both geographic features and political boundaries of the time
• Design/Style:
• Classic 17th-century cartographic style with intricate detailing
• Decorative elements such as ships and sea creatures
• Historical Significance:
• Offers insight into the geographic and political understanding of the region during the 17th century
• Reflects the European perspective and cartographic techniques of the time

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 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.

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.